Hybrid fastening systems

Abstract

Disclosed herein are hybrid fastening systems. The systems include a first contact layer including a styrenic block copolymer and a second contact layer including a low-tack polyolefin. The hybrid fastening systems exhibit good strength upon fastening but do not develop unacceptably strong attachment when maintained in the fastened configuration.

Description

[0001] KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0002] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 HYBRID FASTENING SYSTEMS TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The disclosure relates to hybrid fastening systems for fastening applications.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Fasteners are deployed in a wide variety of contexts, including clothing, hygienic articles, and storage elements. An ideal fastener will have good attachment such that it tightly bonds to its intended surface but will also have a low tendency to adhere to other surfaces. An ideal fastener will also be gentle and not interfere with the comfort and convenience of the user. Further, an ideal fastener will have the ability to attach, detach, and re-attach multiple times over the life of the article without significant degradation in critical performance parameters.

[0006] Common hook and loop fasteners, such as Velcro®, have been widely adopted since their invention in the last century. They provide the selective attachment benefit reasonably well and stand up to multiple attachments also. Nevertheless, hook and loop mechanical fasteners are not always ideal, especially in circumstances when the fastener may contact skin. The many individual hooks and / or loops in the fastener can irritate or damage sensitive skin. Additionally, hook and loop fasteners tend to accumulate hair, fur, and dust, and the hooks can become entangled with other articles of clothing. Further, they can also be relatively expensive, which is especially problematic for single-use product applications.

[0007] Polymeric adhesive attachments have been used for absorbent articles and the like. While they provide good attachment strength at a low cost, they suffer from shortcomings related to limited re-attachment and lack of selectivity in attachment (they attach to almost any substrate). Cohesives are materials that selectively attach primarily to themselves. They can be soft and flexible. However, there have been challenges in the past that have been limiting. When these materials need to be made in roll form, they require a backing layer so that the cohesive layer does not contact itself when wound up. However, adhesion between this backing layer and the cohesive layer when they are in a roll can lead to “roll-blocking” and prevent the material from being unwound as desired for subsequent processing.

[0008] Moreover, two polymeric cohesive films can develop unacceptably high adhesion force over time, rendering the films inseparable by hand.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0009] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 For at least these reasons, there remains a need for fasteners that maintain a consistent and desirable adhesive strength over an extended period of time.

[0010] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES FIG. 1 is a side -perspective view of an absorbent article, such as a diaper, in a fastened condition according to one implementation.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the absorbent article of FIG. 1 in a stretched, laid flat, unfastened condition.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of an absorbent article, such as a pant, according to another implementation.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the absorbent article of FIG. 3 in a stretched, laid flat condition.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a front perspective cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5 from Figure 1, with the absorbent article in a relaxed configuration.

[0015] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] Before the present methods and systems are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that the methods and systems are not limited to specific synthetic methods, specific components, or to particular compositions. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0017] As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and / or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another implementation includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another implementation. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0018] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 “Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

[0019] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word “comprise” and variations of the word, such as “comprising” and “comprises,” means “including but not limited to,” and is not intended to exclude, for example, other additives, components, integers or steps. “Exemplary” means “an example of’ and is not intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal implementation. “Such as” is not used in a restrictive sense, but for explanatory purposes.

[0020] Disclosed are components that can be used to perform the disclosed methods and systems. These and other components are disclosed herein, and it is understood that when combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these components are disclosed that while specific reference of each various individual and collective combinations and permutation of these may not be explicitly disclosed, each is specifically contemplated and described herein, for all methods and systems. This applies to all aspects of this application including, but not limited to, steps in disclosed methods. Thus, if there are a variety of additional steps that can be performed it is understood that each of these additional steps can be performed with any specific implementation or combination of implementations of the disclosed methods.

[0021] As used herein, “machine direction” refers to the direction an extruded polymer film exits the extruding machine. In the context of a polymer film, the machine direction lies along an axis that is parallel to the film and oriented in the direction the film exited the extruding machine.

[0022] As used herein, “cohesion,” “cohesive,” and “cohesion force” relate to the ability of a surface (e.g., a polymer film) to adhere to another surface (e.g., other polymeric films) containing the same polymer system.

[0023] The term “thermoplastic” refers herein to a polymeric material that becomes pliable or moldable above a specific temperature and returns to a solid state upon cooling.

[0024] As used herein, “adhesion,” “adhesive,” and “adhesion force” relate to the ability of a polymeric film / coating to adhere to any other polymeric film or other article surface, regardless of its chemical composition.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0025] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 Hybrid fastening systems

[0026] Disclosed herein are hybrid fastening systems including a first fastening element having a first contact layer, and a second fastening element having a second contact layer. In various implementations, the first contact layer includes a styrenic block copolymer and an elastomer, and the second contact layer includes a low-tack polyolefin. As used herein, a “hybrid fastening system” is one in which the two contacting layers, i.e., the first contact layer and second contact layer, are not the same.

[0027] In some implementations, the second fastening element is configured for being removably fastened to the first fastening element when the second contact layer is in physical contact with the first contact layer.

[0028] Various implementations of the hybrid fastening systems disclosed herein are substantially more “skin-friendly” than conventional hook and loop fasteners, which can abrade skin with their rough surfaces. Moreover, various implementations of the hybrid fastening systems are considerably more flexible than conventional hook and loop fasteners (e.g., the hybrid fastening systems can be bent, twisted, or otherwise deformed while still maintaining excellent adhesive strength).

[0029] In some implementations, when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 10 minutes, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 300 g / 50 mm to 2000 g / 50 mm; and when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 48 hours, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 450 g / 50 mm to 3000 g / 50 mm.

[0030] In some implementations, when the first contact layer and second contact layer are held in a fastened condition for 10 minutes, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 300 g / 50 mm to 2000 g / 50 mm, from 500 g / 50 mm to 1500 g / 50 mm, or from 800 g / 50 mm to 1200 g / 50 mm.

[0031] In some implementations, when the first contact layer and second contact layer are held in a fastened condition for 24 hours, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 400 g / 50 mm to 2500 g / 50 mm, from 600 g / 50 mm to 2000 g / 50 mm, from 600 g / 50 mm to 1,500 g / 50 mm, or from 850 g / 50 mm to 1500 g / 50 mm. In some implementations, when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastenedKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0032] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 condition for 24 hours, the peel force required to disengage the elements is 0-50% greater than the peel force required after 10 minutes. In some implementations, the peel force is 0-40% greater, or 0-30% greater than the peel force required after 10 minutes.

[0033] In some implementations, when the first contact layer and second contact layer are held in a fastened condition for 48 hours, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 450 g / 50 mm to 3000 g / 50 mm, from 750 g / 50 mm to 2250 g / 50 mm, or from 1200 g / 50 mm to 2000 g / 50 mm. In some implementations, when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 48 hours, the peel force required to disengage the elements is 25-100% greater than the peel force required after 10 minutes. In some implementations, the peel force is 0-75% greater, 0-70% greater, or 0-60% greater, or 0-50% greater than the peel force required after 10 minutes.

[0034] In certain implementations, the hybrid fastening system exhibits the desired 10-minute peel force and either the desired 24-hour peel force or the desired 48-hour peel force described above. In some implementations, the hybrid fastening system exhibits the desired 10-minute peel force, desired 24-hour peel force, and desired 48-hour peel force described above.

[0035] The hybrid fastening systems can also be defined by the shear force required to disengage the elements. In some implementations, the shear force required to disengage the elements should not exceed 30 kg / sq. in., 20 kg / sq. in, or 15 kg / sq. in. In some implementations, when the first contact layer and second contact layer are held in a fastened condition for 10 minutes, the shear force required to disengage the elements is at least 4 kg / sq. in. In some implementations, when the first contact layer and second contact layer are held in a fastened condition for 2 hours, the shear force required to disengage the elements is at least 6 kg / sq. in. In some implementations, when the first contact layer and second contact layer are held in a fastened condition for 24 hours, the shear force required to disengage the elements is at least 8 kg / sq. in. In some implementations, when the first contact layer and second contact layer are held in a fastened condition for 48 hours, the shear force required to disengage the elements is at least 10 kg / sq. in.

[0036] In certain implementations, the first and / or second fastening elements may include a multilayer structure in which the first or second contact layers are on the top of backing layer(s) through coextrusion or thermal lamination with another synthetic and / or naturalKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0037] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 polymer web. In some implementations, the first fastening element may comprise the first contact layer and a first fastening element backing layer, where the first contact layer is secured to the first fastening element backing layer (e.g., through coextrusion or thermal lamination). In some implementations, the second fastening element may comprise the second contact layer and a second fastening element backing layer, where the second contact layer is secured to the second fastening element backing layer (e.g., through coextrusion or thermal lamination).

[0038] In some implementations, the first fastening element may consist essentially of the first contact layer. In some implementations, the second fastening element may consist essentially of the second contact layer.

[0039] First fastening element

[0040] As discussed above, various implementations of the hybrid fastening system include a first fastening element comprising a first contact layer. In various implementations, the first contact layer includes a styrene block copolymer. In certain implementations, the total styrene content in the first contact layer is less than 30 wt.%, relative to the weight of the first contact layer. As used herein, wt.%> refers to the concentration of styrene relative to the total mass of all the monomer constituents in the first contact layer. In some implementations, the total styrene content in the SBC is from 0.1-29 wt.%, from 1-5 wt.%, from 5-10 wt.%, from 1-10 wt. ’, from 5-15 wt. ’, from 10-20 wt.%’, from 15-25 wt.%’, or from 20-29 wt.%, relative to the weight of the first contact layer.

[0041] In certain implementations, the styrene block copolymer can be blended with other polymers to form the first contact layer. In certain implementation the first contact layer can include a styrene / rubber block copolymer in which the styrene / rubber ratio of the individual SBC polymer can be from 0.1-30 / 70-99.9, 0.1-20 / 80-99.9, 0.1-10 / 90-99.9, 10-30 / 70-90, 10-20 / 80-90, or 20-30 / 70-80.

[0042] In certain implementations, the first contact layer includes styrene block copolymer in a linear, radial, or star-shaped molecular configuration. In some implementations, the styrene block copolymer is a linear polymer. In certain implementations, the first contact layer includes a styrene-olefin-styrene triblock polymer, for example an unhydrogenated styrene-KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0043] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 olefin-styrene triblock polymer, a hydrogenated styrene-olefin-styrene triblock polymer, or a combination thereof.

[0044] In some implementations, the styrene block copolymer includes a polymer available from Kraton Polymers LLC of Houston, Tex. under the trade name KRATON™ (herein “Kraton”). Kraton polymers include styrene-diene block copolymers, such as styrene-butadiene, styrene-isoprene, styrene -butadiene-styrene, styrene -isoprene-styrene, and styrene- isoprene / butadiene-styrene. Kraton polymers also include styrene-olefin block copolymers formed by selective hydrogenation of styrene-diene block copolymers. Examples of such styrene-olefin block copolymers include styrene-(ethylene-butylene), styrene-(ethylene- propylene), styrene-(ethylene-butylene)-styrene, styrene-(ethylene-propylene)-styrene, styrene-(ethylene-butylene)-styrene-(ethylene-butylene), styrene-(ethylene-propylene)-styrene-(ethylene-propylene), and styrene-ethylene-(ethylene-propylene)-styrene. Specific Kraton block copolymers include those sold under the brand names D0233, D1111, D1113, D1114, D1117, D1119, D1124, D1126, D1161, D1162, D1163, D1164, D1165, D1183, D1193, G 1641, G 1652, G 1657 (styrene / rubber ratio 13 / 87), G 1650, G 1651, G 1654, G 1730 (styrene / rubber ratio 20 / 80), MD6673, and MD6973. Various suitable styrenic block copolymers are described in U. S. Pat. No. 4,663,220 to Wisneski, et al., U. S. Pat. No.

[0045] 4,323,534 to DesMarais, U. S. Pat. No. 4,834,738 to Kielpikowski, et al., U. S. Pat. No.

[0046] 5,093,422 to Himes, and U. S. Pat. No. 5,304,599 to Himes, which are hereby incorporated in their entirety by reference thereto for all purposes. Other commercially available block copolymers include the S-EP-S elastomeric copolymers available from Kuraray Company, Ltd. of Okayama, Japan, under the trade designation SEPTON™. Still other suitable copolymers include the S-l-S and S-B-S elastomeric copolymers, which can be available from Dexco Polymers of Houston, Tex. or TSRC Company of Taiwan under the trade designation VECTOR™. Also suitable are polymers composed of an A-B-A-B tetrablock copolymer, such as discussed in U. S. Pat. No. 5,332,613 to Taylor, et al., which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference thereto for all purposes. An example of such a tetrablock copolymer is a styrene-poly(ethylene-propylene)-styrene-poly(ethylene-propylene) (“S-EP-S-EP”) block copolymer.

[0047] In certain implementations, the first contact layer further includes one or more additional polymers, for example a polyolefin elastomer. The elastomer can be present in an amount from 1-49 wt.%, from 1-25 wt.%, from 25-40 wt.%, from 1-10 wt.%, from 5-15KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0048] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 wt.%, from 10-20 wt.%, from 10-30 wt.%, from 15-25 wt.%, from 20-30 wt.%, from 20-40 wt.%, from 25-35 wt.%, from 30-40 wt.%, or from 40-49 wt.%, relative to the weight of the first contact layer.

[0049] In some implementations, the elastomer can be a copolymer of ethylene or propylene with another a-olefin, such as a C3-C20 a-olefin or C3-C12 a-olefin. Specific examples of suitable a-olefins include 1 -butene; 3-methyl-1-butene; 3,3-dimethyl-l-butene; 1-pentene; 1-pentene with one or more methyl, ethyl or propyl substituents; 1 -hexene with one or more methyl, ethyl or propyl substituents; 1-heptene with one or more methyl, ethyl or propyl substituents; 1 -octene with one or more methyl, ethyl or propyl substituents; 1-nonene with one or more methyl, ethyl or propyl substituents; ethyl, methyl or dimethyl -substituted 1- decene; and 1 -dodecene. Particularly desired a-olefin comonomers are 1 -butene, 1 -hexene and 1 -octene. The ethylene or propylene content of such copolymers may be from about 60 mole % to about 99 mole %, in some implementations from about 80 mole % to about 98.5 mole %, and in some implementations from about 87 mole % to about 97.5 mole %. The a-olefin content may likewise range from about 1 mole % to about 40 mole %, in some implementations from about 1.5 mole % to about 15 mole %, and in some implementations from about 2.5 mole % to about 13 mole %.

[0050] In some implementations, the elastomer includes ethylene-based copolymers available under the designation EXACT™ from ExxonMobil Chemical Company of Houston, Texas, or ENGAGE™, AFFINITY™, DOWLEX™ (LLDPE) and ATTANE™ (ULDPE) from Dow- Chemical Company of Midland, Mich. Other suitable ethylene polymers are described in U. S. Pat. No. 4,937,299 to Ewen et al.; U. S. Pat. No. 5,218,071 to Tsutsui et al.; U. S. Pat. No.

[0051] 5,272,236 to Lai et al.; and U. S. Pat. No. 5,278,272 to Lai et al. In some implementations, the elastomer includes propylene-based copolymers available under the designation VISTAMAXX™ from ExxonMobil Chemical Co. of Houston, Tex.; FINA™ (e.g., 8573) from Atofina Chemicals of Feluy, Belgium; TAFMER™ available from Mitsui Petrochemical Industries; and VERSIFY™ available from Dow Chemical Co. of Midland, Mich. Suitable polypropylene homopolymers may include Exxon Mobil 3155 polypropylene, Exxon Mobil Achieve™ resins, and Total M3661 PP resin. Other examples of suitable propylene polymers are described in U. S. Pat. No. 6,500,563 to Datta, et al.; U. S. Pat. No. 5,539,056 to Yana, et al.; and U. S. Pat. No. 5,596,052 to Resconi, et al.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0052] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 In some implementations, the elastomer is a butadiene block copolymer, a hydrogenated butadiene block copolymer, an isoprene block copolymer, a hydrogenated isoprene block copolymer, non-crystalline ethylene / a-olefin random copolymer, low- crystalline ethylene / a-olefin random copolymer, propylene / ethylene / a-olefin random copolymer, or combination thereof.

[0053] In certain implementations, the elastomer includes an ethylene / propylene random copolymer, ethylene / 1 -butene random copolymer, propylene / 1 -butene random copolymer, or combination thereof.

[0054] In some implementations, the elastomer includes ethylene / a-olefin copolymer, propylene / a-olefin copolymer, or a combination thereof. In certain implementations, the elastomer includes poly(ethylene-butene), poly(ethylene-hexene), poly(ethylene-octene), poly(ethylene-propylene), poly(ester-ether), poly(ether-amide), poly(ethylene-vinylacetate), poly(ethylene-methylacrylate), poly(ethylene-acrylic acid), poly(ethylene butylacrylate), polyurethane, poly(ethylene-propylene-diene), ethylene-propylene rubber, or a combination thereof.

[0055] In certain implementations, the elastomer is a propylene / ethylene elastomer. In some implementations, the elastomer is propylene / ethylene elastomer having an ethylene content in the amount of from 8-22 wt.%, from 8-12 wt.%, from 10-14 wt.%, from 12-15 wt.%, or from 8-16 wt.%.

[0056] In certain implementations, the elastomer includes a polymer sold under the VISTAMAXX brand from ExxonMobil Chemical, including but not limited to the following grades: 2330; 3000; 3020; 3980; 6102; 6202; and 6502. VISTMAMAXX 2330 is a polypropylene based elastomer including about 1 weight percent ethylene content. It has a Shore A hardness of about 77 according to ASTM D2240. VISTMAMAXX 3000 is a polypropylene based elastomer including about 11 weight percent ethylene content. It has a Shore D hardness of about 27 according to ASTM D2240. VISTMAMAXX 3020 is a polypropylene based elastomer including about 11 weight percent ethylene content. It has a Shore D hardness of about 34 according to ASTM D2240. VISTMAMAXX 3980 is a polypropylene based elastomer including about 9 weight percent ethylene content. It has a Shore D hardness of about 34 according to ASTM D2240. VISTMAMAXX 6102 is a polypropylene based elastomer including about 16 weight percent ethylene content. It has aKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0057] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 Shore A hardness of about 66 according to ASTM D2240. VISTMAMAXX 6202 is a polypropylene based elastomer including about 15 weight percent ethylene content. It has a Shore A hardness of about 66 according to ASTM D2240. VISTMAMAXX 6502 is a polypropylene based elastomer including about 13 weight percent ethylene content. It has a Shore A hardness of about 71 according to ASTM D2240.

[0058] In some implementations, the first contact layer is provided as a film. In other implementations, the first contact layer is provided as a polymeric fibrous web.

[0059] In some implementations, the first contact layer has a basis weight (prior to attachment to any backing layer) between about 1-100 grams per square meter (gsm), for example 1-50, 1-25, 1-10, 1-5, 5-10, 5-15, 10-20, 10-25, 10-50, 25-50, 25-75, 25-100, 50- 100, or 75-100 grams per square meter. In some implementations, the first contact layer has a basis weight between about 1-1,000, grams per square meter, for example about 25-1,000, about 50-1,000, about 100-1,000, about 1-500, about 1-250, about 5-250, about 10-250, about 10-100, about 50-100, about 75-125, about 100-150, about 50-150, about 100-250, about 250-500, or about 500-1,000 grams per square meter. In certain implementations, the first contact layer has a basis weight from 10-50 gsm.

[0060] In various implementations, the first fastening element includes a backing layer comprising one or more different materials, such as a hydrophobic material, a hydrophilic material, or a combination thereof. For example, the backing layer can include nonwoven materials, wetlaid, airlaid, spunbond, meltblown, coform, bonded-carded webs, foams, tissue, netting, scrim, woven materials, or a combination thereof. The backing layer may be defined by its basis weight prior to lamination to the first contact layer. In some implementations, the backing layer has a basis weight (prior to attachment to the first contact layer) between about 1-100 grams per square meter, for example 1-50, 1-25, 1-10, 1-5, 5-10, 5-15, 10-20, 10-25, 10-50, 25-50, 25-75, 25-100, 50-100, or 75-100 grams per square meter. In some implementations, the backing layer has a basis weight between about 1-1,000, grams per square meter, for example about 25-1,000, about 50-1,000, about 100-1,000, about 1-500, about 1-250, about 5-250, about 10-250, about 10-100, about 50-100, about 75-125, about 100-150, about 50-150, or about 100-250 per square meter.

[0061] The backing layer may be provided in a variety of different thicknesses. In some implementations, the backing layer has a thickness from, from 0.01-1 mm, from 0.01-0.5KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0062] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 mm, from 0.01-0.25 mm, from 0.01-0.1 mm, from 0.05-1 mm, from 0.1-1 mm, from 0.5-1.5 mm, from 0.5-2.5 mm, or from 1-2.5 mm.

[0063] In some implementations, the backing layer includes a polyolefin. In some implementations, the polyolefin has a melting temperature of from about 100° C. to about 220° C., in some implementations from about 120° C. to about 200° C., and in some implementations from about 140° C. to about 180° C. The melting temperature may be determined using differential scanning calorimetry (“DSC”) in accordance with ASTM D- 3417. Suitable polyolefins may, for instance, include ethylene polymers (e.g., low density polyethylene (“LDPE”), high density polyethylene (“HDPE”), linear low-density polyethylene (“LLDPE”), etc.), propylene homopolymers (e.g., syndiotactic, atactic, isotactic, etc.), propylene copolymers, and so forth. In one particular implementation, the elastomer is a propylene polymer, such as propylene homopolymer or a copolymer of propylene. The propylene polymer may, for instance, be formed from a substantially isotactic polypropylene homopolymer or a copolymer containing equal to or less than about 10 wt. % of other monomers, i.e., at least about 90% by weight propylene. Such homopolymers may have a melting point of from about 140° C. to about 170° C.

[0064] In certain implementations, the backing layer includes a filler. Fillers are particulates or other forms of material that may be added to an extrusion mixture and that will not chemically interfere with the extruded polymer, but which may be uniformly dispersed throughout the polymer system. In some implementations, the filler is barium sulfate, kaolin, calcium carbonate, titanium dioxide, or a combination thereof. The filler may be present in an amount from 5-50 wt.%, from 5-25 wt.%, from 25-50 wt.%, from 5-10 wt.%, from 10-20 wt.%, from 10-30 wt.%, from 15-25 wt.%, from 20-30 wt.%, from 20-40 wt.%, from 25-35 wt.%, from 30-40 wt.%, from 30-50 wt.%, from 35-45 wt.%, or from 40-50 wt.%’, relative to the weight of the backing layer.

[0065] Other additives may also be incorporated. For example, phosphite stabilizers (e.g., IRGAFOS available from Ciba Specialty Chemicals of Terrytown, N. Y. and DOVERPHOS available from Dover Chemical Corp, of Dover, Ohio) are exemplary phosphite stabilizers. In addition, hindered amine stabilizers (e.g., CHIMASSORB available from Ciba Specialty Chemicals) are exemplary heat and light stabilizers. Further, hindered phenols are commonly used as an antioxidant in the production of films. Some suitable hindered phenols includeKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0066] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 those available from Ciba Specialty Chemicals under the trade name “Irganox®”, such as Irganox® 1076, 1010, or E 201. Moreover, bonding agents may also be added to the elastic composition to facilitate bonding to additional materials (e.g., nonwoven web). When employed, such additives (e.g., tackifier, antioxidant, stabilizer, crosslinking agents, pro-rad additives, etc.) may each be present in an amount from about 0.001 wt. % to about 25 wt. %, in some implementations, from about 0.005 wt. % to about 20 wt. %, and in some implementations from 0.01 wt. % to about 15 wt. % of the elastic material.

[0067] The first contact layer may be combined with the backing layer using a variety of techniques. They may be separately made and then combined using thermal or adhesive bonding. In certain implementations, the first contact layer may be co-extruded with the backing layer and laminated during manufacture. In other implementations, one film may be extruded onto a base of an already formed film or nonwoven web.

[0068] In various implementations, the first contact layer may be laminated to the backing layer using an adhesive or autogenuously (e.g., fusion and / or self-adhesion of the fibers without an applied external adhesive). Autogenous bonding, for instance, may be achieved through contact of the layers while they are semi-molten or tacky, or simply by blending a tackifying resin and / or solvent with the materials used to form the backing layer. Suitable autogenous bonding techniques may include ultrasonic bonding, thermal bonding, pressure bonding through-air bonding, calendar bonding, and so forth, provided that the resulting laminate does not decouple in the presence of moisture. Suitable adhesives may include, for instance, hot melt adhesives, pressure-sensitive adhesives, and so forth. When utilized, the adhesive may be applied as a uniform layer, a patterned layer, a sprayed pattern, or any of separate lines, swirls, or dots.

[0069] In some implementations, the first fastening element may be configured as a roll (e.g., in-line following extrusion or after separation from the extrusion machine). For example, in various implementations, the first contact layer defines an exposed face intended to contact the second contact layer of second fastening element) and a backing face (e.g., contacting the backing layer). The first fastening element may be rolled (e.g., about an axis perpendicular to a machine direction) to define a multi-layer roll of first fastening element. The first fastening element attachment may be rolled, for example, such that the backing face of one roll layer contacts the exposed face of an adjacent roll layer.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0070] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 Second fastening element

[0071] As discussed above, various implementations of the hybrid fastening system also include a second fastening element comprising a second contact layer. In some implementations, the second contact layer can include a polyolefin, for example a low tack polyolefin. In some implementations, the polyolefin is polyethylene, polypropylene, a copolymer thereof, or a combination thereof. For example, the polyolefin can be an ethyl ene / propylene copolymer. In some implementations, the second contact layer can include LLDPE, LDPE, MDPE, UHMWPE, or PP.

[0072] In certain implementations, the second contact layer can include the polyolefin, in an amount of at least 60 wt.%, at least 70 wt.%, at least 80 wt.%, at least 90%, at least 95 wt.%, or at least 98 wt.%. relative to the second contact layer. In some implementations, the second contact layer can include polyethylene, polypropylene, a copolymer thereof, or a combination thereof in an amount of at least 60 wt.%, at least 70 wt.%, at least 80 wt.%, at least 90%, at least 95 wt.%, or at least 98 wt.%.

[0073] In certain implementations, the second contact layer can be composed completely of a polyolefin. In some implementations, the second contact layer can be composed completely of polyethylene, polypropylene, a copolymer thereof, or a combination thereof.

[0074] In some implementations, the second contact layer can also include a styrene block copolymer, however the content of the styrene block copolymer should not exceed 50% by weight. The styrene block copolymer may be present in an amount from 0% to less than 50% by weight. In some implementations, the second contact layer includes a styrene block copolymer in an amount of less than 40% by weight, less than 30% by weight, less than 25% by weight, less than 20% by weight, less than 15% by weight, less than 10% by weight, or less than 5% by weight. In some implementations, the second contact layer does not include a styrene block copolymer.

[0075] In some implementations, the second contact layer can include a second polymer selected from polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid, ethylene vinyl acetate, poly(methyl)methacrylate, poly(methyl)acrylate, a copolymer thereof, or a combination thereof. In some implementations, the second contact layer includes the second polymer in an amount ofless than 50%’ by weight, less than 40% by weight, less than 30% byKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0076] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 weight, less than 25% by weight, less than 20% by weight, less than 15% by weight, less than 10% by weight, or less than 5% by weight. In some implementations, the second contact layer does not include a polymer selected from polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid, ethylene vinyl acetate, poly(methyl)methacrylate, poly(methyl)acrylate, a copolymer thereof, or a combination thereof.

[0077] In some implementations, the second contact layer can include two or more different polyolefins which are C1-C12 alpha olefins. The polyolefins can differ by one or more features such as monomer constituents, monomer ratios, molecular weight, density, and the like. In some implementations, the second contact layer can include a first polymer comprising polyethylene, polypropylene, or a copolymer thereof having a MWwof 50,000 Da to 1,000,000 Da, and a second polymer comprising polyethylene, polypropylene, or a copolymer thereof having a MWwfrom 10,000-500,000 Da. Alternately, the polyolefins might have a Melt Flow Rate (MFR) as measured using ASTM D1238 (2.16 kg, 230 deg C) of between I and 1000 g / 10 min: 5 and 500 g / 10 min; 10 and 100 g / min.

[0078] The second contact layer can be characterized by the crystallinity of the polymer components, which may be determined using DSC. In some implementations, the crystallinity of one or more of the polymers in the second contact layer is less than 70%. In some implementations, the crystallinity of one or more of the polymers in the second contact layer is from 5-70%, from 5-60%, from 5-50%, from 20-60%, or from 30-50% (as measured by DSC). In some implementations, each polymer present in the second contact layer will have a crystallinity that is less than 70%. In some implementations, when the second contact layer includes two or more PE, PP, or PE / PP copolymers, the crystallinity of each is less than 70%, e.g., from 5-70%, from 5-60%, from 5-50%, from 20-60%, or from 30-50%. In other implementations, when the second contact layer includes two or more PE, PP, or PE / PP copolymers, the crystallinity of the polymer present in the greatest amount by mass has a crystallinity less than 70%, e.g., from 5-70%, from 5-60%, from 5-50%, from 5-30%, from 5-15%, from 20-60%, from 20-50%, from 20-40%, or from 30-50%.

[0079] In various implementations, the second contact layer can be characterized by its density. In some implementations, the density of the second contact layer can be from 0.85 to 0.94 g / cm3or from 0.90 to 0.92 g / cm³.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0080] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 In some implementations, the second contact layer is a low tack polyolefin. In certain implementations, the peel force required to disengage two second contact layers held together for 10 minutes can be less than 100 g / 50 mm.

[0081] In certain implementations, the second contact layer includes a polymer sold under the VISTAMAXX brand from ExxonMobil Chemical, including but not limited to the following grades: 2330; 3000; 3020; 3980; 6102; 6202; and 6502. VISTAMAXX 2330 is a polypropylene based elastomer including about 13 weight percent ethylene content. It has a Shore A hardness of about 77 according to ASTM D2240. VISTAMAXX 3000 is a polypropylene based elastomer including about 11 weight percent ethylene content. It has a Shore D hardness of about 27 according to ASTM D2240. VISTAMAXX 3020 is a polypropylene based elastomer including about 11 weight percent ethylene content. It has a Shore D hardness of about 34 according to ASTM D2240. VISTAMAXX 3980 is a polypropylene based elastomer including about 9 weight percent ethylene content. It has a Shore D hardness of about 34 according to ASTM D2240. VISTAMAXX 6102 is a polypropylene based elastomer including about 16 weight percent ethylene content. It has a Shore A hardness of about 66 according to ASTM D2240. VISTAMAXX 6202 is a polypropylene based elastomer including about 15 weight percent ethylene content. It has a Shore A hardness of about 66 according to ASTM D2240. VISTAMAXX 6502 is a polypropylene based elastomer including about 13 weight percent ethylene content. It has a Shore A hardness of about 71 according to ASTM D2240.

[0082] In various implementations, the second fastening element includes a backing layer comprising one or more different materials, such as a hydrophobic material, a hydrophilic material, or a combination thereof. For example, the backing layer can include nonwoven materials, wetlaid, airlaid, spunbond, meltblown, coform, bonded-carded webs, foams, tissue, netting, scrim, woven materials, or a combination thereof. The backing layer may be defined by its basis weight prior to lamination to the second contact layer. In some implementations, the backing layer has a basis weight (prior to attachment to the second contact layer) between about 1-100 grams per square meter, for example 1-50, 1-25, 1-10, 1-5, 5-10, 5-15, 10-20, 10-25, 10-50, 25-50, 25-75, 25-100, 50-100, or 75-100 grams per square meter. In some implementations, the backing layer has a basis weight between about 1-1,000, grams per square meter, for example about 25-1,000, about 50-1,000, about 100-1,000, about 1-500,KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0083] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 about 1-250, about 5-250, about 10-250, about 10-100, about 50-100, about 75-125, about 100-150, about 50-150, or about 100-250 per square meter.

[0084] The backing layer may be provided in a variety of different thicknesses. In some implementations, the backing layer has a thickness from, from 0.01-1 mm, from 0.01-0.5 mm, from 0.01-0.25 mm, from 0.01-0.1 mm, from 0.05-1 mm, from 0.1-1 mm, from 0.5-1.5 mm, from 0.5-2.5 mm, or from 1-2.5 mm.

[0085] In some implementations, the backing layer includes a polyolefin. In some implementations, the polyolefin has a melting temperature of from about 100° C. to about 220° C., in some implementations from about 120° C. to about 200° C., and in some implementations from about 140° C. to about 180° C. The melting temperature may be determined using differential scanning calorimetry (“DSC”) in accordance with ASTM D- 3417. Suitable polyolefins may, for instance, include ethylene polymers (e.g., low density polyethylene (“LDPE”), high density polyethylene (“HDPE”), linear low-density polyethylene (“LLDPE”), etc.), propylene homopolymers (e.g., syndiotactic, atactic, isotactic, etc.), propylene copolymers, and so forth. In one particular implementation, the elastomer is a propylene polymer, such as propylene homopolymer or a copolymer of propylene. The propylene polymer may, for instance, be formed from a substantially isotactic polypropylene homopolymer or a copolymer containing equal to or less than about 10 wt. % of other monomers, i.e., at least about 90% by weight propylene. Such homopolymers may have a melting point of from about 140° C. to about 170° C.

[0086] In certain implementations, the backing layer for the second contact layer includes a filler. Fillers are particulates or other forms of material that may be added to an extrusion mixture and that will not chemically interfere with the extruded polymer, but which may be uniformly dispersed throughout the polymer system. In some implementations, the filler is barium sulfate, kaolin, calcium carbonate, titanium dioxide, or a combination thereof. The filler may be present in an amount from 5-50 wt.%, from 5-25 wt.%, from 25-50 wt.%, from 5-10 wt.%, from 10-20 wt.%, from 10-30 wt.%, from 15-25 wt.%, from 20-30 wt.%, from 20-40 wt.%, from 25-35 wt.%, from 30-40 wt.%, from 30-50 wt.%, from 35-45 wt.%, or from 40-50 wt.%’, relative to the w'eight of the backing layer.

[0087] Other additives may also be incorporated to the backing layer for the second contact layer. For example, phosphite stabilizers (e.g., IRGAFOS available from Ciba SpecialtyKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0088] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 Chemicals of Terrytown, N. Y. and DOVERPHOS available from Dover Chemical Corp, of Dover, Ohio) are exemplary phosphite stabilizers. In addition, hindered amine stabilizers (e.g., CHIMASSORB available from Ciba Specialty Chemicals) are exemplary heat and light stabilizers. Further, hindered phenols are commonly used as an antioxidant in the production of films. Some suitable hindered phenols include those available from Ciba Specialty Chemicals under the trade name “Irganox®”, such as Irganox® 1076, 1010, or E 201.

[0089] Moreover, bonding agents may also be added to the elastic composition to facilitate bonding to additional materials (e.g., nonwoven web). When employed, such additives (e.g., tackifier, antioxidant, stabilizer, crosslinking agents, pro-rad additives, etc.) may each be present in an amount from about 0.001 wt. % to about 25 wt. %, in some implementations, from about 0.005 wt. % to about 20 wt. %, and in some implementations from 0.01 wt. % to about 15 wt. % of the elastic material.

[0090] The second contact layer may be combined with the backing layer using a variety of techniques. They may be separately made and then combined using thermal or adhesive bonding. In certain implementations, the second contact layer may be co -extruded with the backing layer and laminated during manufacture. In other implementations, one film may be extruded onto a base of an already formed film or nonwoven web.

[0091] In various implementations, the second contact layer may be laminated to the backing layer using an adhesive or autogenuously (e.g., fusion and / or self-adhesion of the fibers without an applied external adhesive). Autogenous bonding, for instance, may be achieved through contact of the layers while they are semi-molten or tacky, or simply by blending a tackifying resin and / or solvent with the materials used to form the backing layer. Suitable autogenous bonding techniques may include ultrasonic bonding, thermal bonding, pressure bonding through-air bonding, calendar bonding, and so forth, provided that the resulting laminate does not decouple in the presence of moisture. Suitable adhesives may include, for instance, hot melt adhesives, pressure-sensitive adhesives, and so forth. When utilized, the adhesive may be applied as a uniform layer, a patterned layer, a sprayed pattern, or any of separate lines, swirls, or dots.

[0092] In some implementations, the second contact layer is provided as a film. In other implementations, the second contact layer is provided as a polymeric fibrous web. In other implementations, the second contact layer can be a multi-layer film in which the top layerKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0093] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 provides desirable peel when engaged to the first contact layer and the bottom layer provides other benefits such as rigidity to control overall flexibility, roll blocking minimization and the like.

[0094] Absorbent Articles Having Hybrid Fastening Systems

[0095] Also disclosed herein are various articles of manufacture which combine the hybrid fastening systems described herein with various articles of manufacture, such as absorbent articles and / or tissue products.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, a non-limiting illustration of an absorbent article 10, for example a diaper, is illustrated. While the implementations and illustrations described herein may generally apply to absorbent articles manufactured in the product longitudinal direction, which is hereinafter called the machine direction manufacturing of a product, it should be noted that one of ordinary skill in the art could apply the information herein to absorbent articles manufactured in the latitudinal direction of the product, which hereinafter is called the cross-machine direction manufacturing of a product, without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. For example, the absorbent article 210 shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 provides an implementation of an absorbent article 210 that can be manufactured in crossmachine direction manufacturing process.

[0097] The absorbent article 10 illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 and the absorbent article 210 illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 can each include a chassis 11. The absorbent article 10, 2.10 can include a front waist region 12, a rear waist region 14, and a crotch region 16 disposed between the front waist region 12 and the rear waist region 14 and interconnecting the front and rear waist regions, 12, 14, respectively. The front waist region 12 can be referred to as the front-end region, the rear waist region 14 can be referred to as the rear-end region, and the crotch region 16 can be referred to as the intermediate region. In the implementation depicted in FIGS. 4 and 5, a three-piece construction of an absorbent article 210 is depicted where the absorbent article 210 can have a chassis 11 including a front waist panel 13 defining the front waist region 12, a rear waist panel 15 defining the rear waist region 14, and an absorbent panel 17 defining the crotch region 16 of the absorbent article 210. The absorbent panel 17 can extend between the front waist panel 13 and the rear waist panel 15. In some implementations, the absorbent panel 17 can overlap the front waist panel 13 and the rear waist panel 15. The absorbent panel 17 can be bonded to the front waist panel 13 and the rearKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0098] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 waist panel 15 to define a three-piece construction. However, it is contemplated that an absorbent article can be manufactured in a crossmachine direction without being a three-piece construction garment.

[0099] The absorbent article 10, 210 can have a pair of longitudinal side edges 18, 20, and a pair of opposite waist edges, respectively designated front waist edge 22 and rear waist edge 24. The front waist region 12 can be contiguous with the front waist edge 2.2 and the rear waist region 14 can be contiguous with the rear waist edge 24. The longitudinal side edges 18, 20 can extend from the front waist edge 22 to the rear waist edge 24. The longitudinal side edges 18, 20 can extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction 30 for their entire length, such as for the absorbent article 10 illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3. In other implementations, the longitudinal side edges 18, 20 can be curved between the front waist edge 22 and the rear waist edge 24. In the absorbent article 210 of FIGS. 4 and 5, the longitudinal side edges 18, 20 can include portions of the front waist panel 13, the absorbent panel 17, and the rear waist panel 15.

[0100] The front waist region 12. can include the portion of the absorbent article 10, 210 that, when worn, is positioned at. least in part, on the front of the wearer while the rear waist region 14 can include the portion of the absorbent article 10, 210 that, when worn, is positioned at least in part on the back of the wearer. The crotch region 16 of the absorbent article 10, 210 can include the portion of the absorbent article 10, 210 that, when worn, is positioned between the legs of the wearer and can partially cover the lower torso of the wearer. The waist edges, 22 and 24, of the absorbent article 10, 210 are configured to encircle the waist of the wearer and together define a central waist opening 23 (as labeled in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3) for the waist of the wearer. Portions of the longitudinal side edges 18, 20 in the crotch region 16 can generally define leg openings for the legs of the wearer when the absorbent article 10, 210 is worn.

[0101] The absorbent article 10, 210 can include an outer cover 26 and a bodyside liner 28. The outer cover 26 and the bodyside liner 28 can form a portion of the chassis 11. In an implementation, the bodyside liner 28 can be bonded to the outer cover 26 in a superposed relation by any suitable means such as, but not limited to, adhesives, ultrasonic bonds, thermal bonds, pressure bonds, or other conventional techniques. The outer cover 26 can define a length in a longitudinal direction 30, and a width in the lateral direction 32, which, inKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0102] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 the illustrated implementation, can coincide with the length and width of the absorbent article 10. As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 5, the absorbent article 10, 210 can have a longitudinal axis 29 extending in the longitudinal direction 30 and a lateral axis 31 extending in the lateral direction 32.

[0103] The chassis 11 can include an absorbent body 34. The absorbent body 34 can be disposed between the outer cover 26 and the bodyside liner 28. The absorbent body 34 can have longitudinal edges, 36 and 38, which, in an implementation, can form portions of the longitudinal side edges, 18 and 20, respectively, of the absorbent article 10, 210. The absorbent body 34 can have a first end edge 40 that is opposite a second end edge 42, respectively, which, in an implementation, can form portions of the waist edges, 22 and 24, respectively, of the absorbent article 10. In some implementations, the first end edge 40 can be in the front waist region 12. In some implementations, the second end edge 42 can be in the rear waist region 14. In an implementation, the absorbent body 34 can have a length and width that are the same as or less than the length and width of the absorbent article 10, 210. The bodyside liner 28, the outer cover 26, and the absorbent body 34 can form part of an absorbent assembly 44. In the absorbent article 210 of FIGS. 4 and 5, the absorbent panel 17 can form the absorbent assembly 44. The absorbent assembly 44 can also include a fluid transfer layer 46 (as shown in FIG. 5) and a fluid acquisition layer (not shown) between the bodyside liner 28 and the fluid transfer layer 46 as is known in the art. The absorbent assembly 44 can also include a spacer layer 48 (as shown in FIG. 5) disposed between the absorbent body 34 and the outer cover 26.

[0104] The absorbent article 10, 210 can be configured to contain and / or absorb liquid, solid, and semi-solid body exudates discharged from the wearer. In some implementations, containment flaps 50, 52 can be configured to provide a barrier to the lateral flow of body exudates. To further enhance containment and / or absorption of body exudates, the absorbent article 10, 210 can suitably include a waist containment member 54. In some implementations, the waist containment member 54 can be disposed in the rear waist region 14 of the absorbent article 10, 210. Although not depicted herein, it is contemplated that the waist containment member 54 can be additionally or alternatively disposed in the front waist region 12 of the absorbent article 10, 210.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0105] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 The waist containment member 54 can be disposed on the body facing surface 19 of the chassis 11 to help contain and / or absorb body exudates. In some implementations, such as in the absorbent articles 10 depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, the waist containment member 54 can be disposed on the body facing surface 45 of the absorbent assembly 44. In some implementations, the waist containment member 54 can be disposed on the body facing surface 56 of the bodyside liner 28. In some implementations, such as in the absorbent article 210 depicted in FIGS. 4 and 5, the waist containment member 54 can be disposed on the body facing surface 58 of the rear waist panel 15.

[0106] The absorbent article 10, 210 can further include leg elastic members 60, 62 as are known to those skilled in the art. The leg elastic members 60, 62 can be attached to the outer cover 26 and / or the bodyside liner 28 along the opposite longitudinal side edges, 18 and 20, and positioned in the crotch region 16 of the absorbent article 10, 210. The leg elastic members 60, 62 can be parallel to the longitudinal axis 29 as shown in FIGS. 3 and 5 or can be curved as is known in the art. The leg elastic members 60, 62 can be elastomeric and can provide elasticized leg cuffs.

[0107] In some implementations, the absorbent article 10, 210 can further include longitudinal extending fold lines 25a, 25b, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 5. The first longitudinal extending fold line 25a can be on one side of the longitudinal axis 29 of the absorbent article 10, 210 and the second longitudinal extending fold line 25b can be on an opposite side of the longitudinal axis 29. In some implementations, the longitudinal extending fold lines 25a, 25b can be generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 29 of the absorbent article 10, 210. In some implementations, the absorbent article 10, 210 can further include a lateral extending fold line 27. The lateral extending fold line 27 can be parallel to and located at the lateral axis 31 of the absorbent article 10, 210 in some implementations.

[0108] Additional details regarding each of these elements of the absorbent article 10, 210 described herein can be found below and with reference to the Figures.

[0109] Outer cover:

[0110] The outer cover 26 and / or portions thereof can be breathable and / or liquid impermeable. The outer cover 26 and / or portions thereof can be elastic, stretchable, or non- stretchable. The outer cover 26 may be constructed of a single layer, multiple layers,KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0111] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 laminates, spunbond fabrics, films, meltblown fabrics, elastic netting, microporous webs, bonded-carded webs or foams provided by elastomeric or polymeric materials. In an implementation, for example, the outer cover 26 can be constructed of a microporous polymeric film, such as polyethylene or polypropylene.

[0112] In an implementation, the outer cover 26 can be a single layer of a liquid impermeable material, such as a polymeric film. In an implementation, the outer cover 26 can be suitably stretchable, and more suitably elastic, in at least the lateral direction 32 of the absorbent article 10, 210. In an implementation, the outer cover 26 can be stretchable, and more suitably elastic, in both the lateral 32 and the longitudinal 30 directions. In an implementation, the outer cover 26 can be a multi-layered laminate in which at least one of the layers is liquid impermeable. In some implementations, the outer cover 26 can be a two-layer construction, including an outer layer (not shown) and an inner layer (not shown) which can be bonded together such as by a laminate adhesive. Suitable laminate adhesives can be applied continuously or intermittently as beads, a spray, parallel swirls, or the like, but it is to be understood that the inner layer can be bonded to the outer layer by other bonding methods, including, but not limited to, ultrasonic bonds, thermal bonds, pressure bonds, or the like.

[0113] The outer layer of the outer cover 26 can be any suitable material and may be one that provides a generally cloth-like texture or appearance to the wearer. An example of such material can be a 100% polypropylene bonded-carded web with a diamond bond pattern available from Sandler A. G., Germany, such as 30 gsm Sawabond 4185® or equivalent. Another example of material suitable for use as an outer layer of an outer cover 26 can be a 20 gsm spunbond polypropylene non-woven web. The outer layer may also be constructed of the same materials from which the bodyside liner 28 can be constructed as described herein.

[0114] The liquid impermeable inner layer of the outer cover 26 (or the liquid impermeable outer cover 26 where the outer cover 26 is of a single-layer construction) can be either vapor permeable (i.e., “breathable”) or vapor impermeable. The liquid impermeable inner layer (or the liquid impermeable outer cover 26 where the outer cover 26 is of a single-layer construction) can be manufactured from a thin plastic film. The liquid impermeable inner layer (or the liquid impermeable outer cover 26 where the outer cover 26 is of a single-layer construction) can inhibit liquid body exudates from leaking out of the absorbent article 10, 210 and wetting articles, such as bed sheets and clothing, as well as the wearer and caregiver.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0115] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 In some implementations, where the outer cover 26 is of a single layer construction, it can be embossed and / or matte finished to provide a more cloth-like texture or appearance. The outer cover 26 can permit vapors to escape from the absorbent article 10 while preventing liquids from passing through. A suitable liquid impermeable, vapor permeable material can be composed of a microporous polymer film or a non-woven material which has been coated or otherwise treated to impart a desired level of liquid impermeability.

[0116] The bodyside liner 28 of the absorbent article 10, 110, 210 can overlay the absorbent body 34 and the outer cover 26 and can isolate the wearer’s skin from liquid waste retained by the absorbent body 34. In various implementations, a fluid transfer layer 46 can be positioned between the bodyside liner 28 and the absorbent body 34. In various implementations, an acquisition layer (not shown) can be positioned between the bodyside liner 28 and the absorbent body 34 or a fluid transfer layer 46, if present. In various implementations, the bodyside liner 28 can be bonded to the acquisition layer, or to the fluid transfer layer 46 if no acquisition layer is present, via adhesive and / or by a point fusion bonding. The point fusion bonding may be selected from ultrasonic, thermal, pressure bonding, and combinations thereof.

[0117] In an implementation, the bodyside liner 28 can extend beyond the absorbent body 34 and / or a fluid transfer layer 46, if present, and / or an acquisition layer, if present, and / or a spacer layer 48, if present, to overlay a portion of the outer cover 26 and can be bonded thereto by any method deemed suitable, such as, for example, by being bonded thereto by adhesive, to substantially enclose the absorbent body 34 between the outer cover 26 and the bodyside liner 28. The bodyside liner 28 may be narrower than the outer cover 26. However, in other implementations, the bodyside liner 28 and the outer cover 26 may be of the same dimensions in width and length. In other implementations, the bodyside liner 28 can be of greater width than the outer cover 26. It is also contemplated that the bodyside liner 28 may not extend beyond the absorbent body 34 and / or may not be secured to the outer cover 26. In some implementations, the bodyside liner 28 can wrap at least a portion of the absorbent body 34, including wrapping around both longitudinal edges 36, 38 of the absorbent body 34, and / or one or more of the end edges 40, 42. It is further contemplated that the bodyside liner 28 may be composed of more than one segment of material. The bodyside liner 28 can be of different shapes, including rectangular, hourglass, or any other shape. The bodyside liner 28 can be suitably compliant, soft feeling, and non-irritating to the wearer’s skin and can be theKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0118] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 same as or less hydrophilic than the absorbent body 34 to permit body exudates to readily penetrate through to the absorbent body 34 and provide a relatively dry surface to the wearer.

[0119] The bodyside liner 28 can be manufactured from a wide selection of materials, such as synthetic fibers (for example, polyester or polypropylene fibers), natural fibers (for example, wood or cotton fibers), a combination of natural and synthetic fibers, porous foams, reticulated foams, apertured plastic films, or the like. Examples of suitable materials include, but are not limited to, rayon, wood, cotton, polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, nylon, or other heat-bondable fibers, polyolefins, such as, but not limited to, copolymers of polypropylene and polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, and aliphatic esters such as polylactic acid, finely perforated film webs, net materials, and the like, as well as combinations thereof.

[0120] Various woven and non-woven fabrics can be used for the bodyside liner 28. The bodyside liner 28 can include a woven fabric, a nonwoven fabric, a polymer film, a film¬ fabric laminate or the like, as well as combinations thereof. Examples of a nonwoven fabric can include spunbond fabric, meltblown fabric, coform fabric, carded web, bonded-carded web, bicomponent spunbond fabric, spunlace, or the like, as well as combinations thereof. The bodyside liner 28 need not be a unitary layer structure, and thus, can include more than one layer of fabrics, films, and / or webs, as well as combinations thereof. For example, the bodyside liner 28 can include a support layer and a projection layer that can be hydroentagled. The projection layer can include hollow projections, such as those disclosed in U. S. Patent No. 9,474,660 to Kirby, Scott S. C. et al.

[0121] For example, the body side liner 28 can be composed of a meltblown or spunbond web of polyolefin fibers. Alternatively, the bodyside liner 28 can be a bonded-carded web composed of natural and / or synthetic fibers. The bodyside liner 28 can be composed of a substantially hydrophobic material, and the hydrophobic material can, optionally, be treated with a surfactant or otherwise processed to impart a desired level of wettability and hydrophilicity. The surfactant can be applied by any conventional means, such as spraying, printing, brush coating or the like. The surfactant can be applied to the entire bodyside liner 28 or it can be selectively applied to particular sections of the bodyside liner 28.

[0122] In an implementation, a bodyside liner 28 can be constructed of a non-woven bicomponent web. The non-woven bicomponent web can be a spunbonded bicomponent web,KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0123] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 or a bonded-carded bicomponent web. An example of a bicomponent staple fiber includes a polyethylene / polypropylene bicomponent fiber. In this particular bicomponent fiber, the polypropylene forms the core and the polyethylene forms the sheath of the fiber. Fibers having other orientations, such as multi-lobe, side-by-side, end-to-end may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In an implementation, a bodyside liner 28 can be a spunbond substrate with a basis weight from 10 or 12 to 15 or 20 gsm. In an implementation, a bodyside liner 28 can be a 12 gsm spunbond-meltblown-spunbond substrate having 10% meltblown content applied between the two spunbond layers.

[0124] Although the outer cover 26 and bodyside liner 28 can include elastomeric materials, it is contemplated that the outer cover 26 and the bodyside liner 28 can be composed of materials which are generally non-elastomeric. In an implementation, the bodyside liner 28 can be stretchable, and more suitably elastic. In an implementation, the bodyside liner 28 can be suitably stretchable and more suitably elastic in at least the lateral or circumferential direction of the absorbent article 10, 210. In other aspects, the body side liner 28 can be stretchable, and more suitably elastic, in both the lateral and the longitudinal directions 32, 30, respectively.

[0125] Containment Flaps:

[0126] In an implementation, the absorbent article 10, 210 can include a pair of containment flaps 50, 52. The containment flaps 50, 52 can be formed separately from the absorbent chassis 11 and attached to the chassis 11 or can be formed integral to the chassis 11. In some implementations, the containment flaps 50, 52 can be secured to the chassis 11 of the absorbent article 10, 210 in a generally parallel, spaced relation with each other laterally inward of the leg openings to provide a barrier against the flow of body exudates. One containment flap 50 can be on a first side of the l ongitudinal axis 29 and the other containment flap 52 can be on a second side of the longitudinal axis 29. In an implementation, the containment flaps 50, 52 can extend generally in a longitudinal direction 30 from the front waist region 12 of the absorbent article 10, through the crotch region 16 to the rear waist region 14 of the absorbent article 10. In some implementations, the containment flaps 50, 52 can extend in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 29 of the absorbent article 10, 210, however, in other implementations, the containment flaps 50, 52 can be curved, as is known in the art. In other implementations, such as theKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0127] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 absorbent article 210 in FIGS. 4 and 5, the containment flaps 50, 52 can be disposed on the absorbent panel 17 in the crotch region 16.

[0128] In implementations where the containment flaps 50, 52 are coupled to the chassis 11, the containment flaps 50, 52 can be bonded to the bodyside liner 28 with a barrier adhesive 49, as shown in FIG. 5. Alternatively, the containment flaps 50, 52 can be bonded to the outer cover 26 with a barrier adhesive 49, or to the spacer layer 48. Of course, the containment flaps 50, 52 can be bonded to other components of the chassis 11 and can be bonded with other suitable means other than a barrier adhesive 49. The containment flaps 50, 52 can be constructed of a fibrous material which can be similar to the material forming the body side liner 28. Other conventional materials, such as polymer films, can also be employed.

[0129] The containment flaps 50, 52 can each include a base portion 64 and a projection portion 66. The base portion 64 can be bonded to the chassis 11, for example, to the bodyside liner 28 or the outer cover 26 as mentioned above. The base portion 64 can include a proximal end 64a and a distal end 64b. The projection portion 66 can be separated from the base portion 64 at the proximal end 64a of the base portion 64. As used in this context, the projection portion 66 is separated from the base portion 64 at the proximal end 64a of the base portion 64 in that the proximal end 64a of the base portion 64 defines a transition between the projection portion 66 and the base portion 64. The proximal end 64a of the base portion 64 can be located near the barrier adhesive 49. In some implementations, the distal ends 64b of the base portion 64 can laterally extend to the respective longitudinal side edges 18, 20 of the absorbent article 10, 210. In other implementations, the distal ends 64b of the base portion 64 can end laterally inward of the respective longitudinal side edges 18, 20 of the absorbent article 10, 210. The containment flaps 50, 52 can also each include a projection portion 66 that is configured to extend away from the body facing surface 19 of the chassis 11 at least in the crotch region 16 when the absorbent article 10, 210 is in a relaxed configuration, as illustrated in FIG. 5. The containment flaps 50, 52 can include a tack-down region 71 in either or both of the front waist region 12 and the rear waist region 14 where the projection portion 66 is coupled to the body facing surface 19 of the chassis 11.

[0130] It is contemplated that the containment flaps 50, 52 can be of various configurations and shapes, and can be constructed by various methods. For example, the containment flaps 50, 52 of FIG. 5 depict a vertical containment flap 50, 52 with a tack-down region 71 in bothKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0131] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 the front and rear waist regions 12, 14 where the projection portion 66 of each containment flap 50, 52 is tacked down to the bodyside liner 28 towards or away from the longitudinal axis 29 of the absorbent article 10, 210. However, the containment flaps 50, 52 can include a tack-down region 71 where the projection portion 66 of each of the containment flaps 50, 52 is folded back upon itself and coupled to itself and the bodyside liner 28 in a “C-shape” configuration, as is known in the art and described in U. S. Patent No. 5,895,382 to Robert L. Popp et al. As yet another alternative, it is contemplated that the containment flaps 50, 52 could be constructed in a “T-shape” configuration, such as described in U. S. Patent No. 9,259,362 by Robert L. Popp et al. Such a configuration can also include a tack-down region 71 in either or both of the front and rear waist regions 12, 14, respectively. Of course, other configurations of containment flaps 50, 52 can be used in the absorbent article 10, 210 and still remain within the scope of this disclosure.

[0132] The containment flaps 50, 52 can include one or more flap elastic members 68, such as the two flap elastic strands depicted in FIG. 5. Suitable elastomeric materials for the flap elastic members 68 can include sheets, strands or ribbons of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, or thermoplastic elastomeric materials. Of course, while two elastic members 68 are shown in each containment flap 50, 52, it is contemplated that the containment flaps 50, 52 can be configured with one or three or more elastic members 68. Alternatively or additionally, the containment flaps 50, 52 can be composed of a material exhibiting elastomeric properties itself.

[0133] The flap elastic members 68, as illustrated in FIG. 5, can have two strands of elastomeric material extending longitudinally in the projection portion 66 of the containment flaps 50, 52, in generally parallel, spaced relation with each other. The elastic members 68 can be within the containment flaps 50, 52 while in an elastically contractible condition such that contraction of the strands gathers and shortens the projection portions 66 of the containment flaps 50, 52 in the longitudinal direction 30. As a result, the elastic members 68 can bias the projection portions 66 of the containment flaps 50, 52 to extend away from the body facing surface 45 of the absorbent assembly 44 in a generally upright orientation of the containment flaps 50, 52, especially in the crotch region 16 of the absorbent article 10, 210, when the absorbent article 10 is in a relaxed configuration.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0134] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 During manufacture of the containment flaps 50, 52 at least a portion of the elastic members 68 can be bonded to the containment flaps 50, 52 while the elastic members 68 are elongated. The percent elongation of the elastic members 68 can be, for example, 110% to 350%. In one implementation, the elastic members 68 can be coated with adhesive while elongated to a specified length prior to attaching to the elastic members 68 to the containment flaps 50, 52. In a stretched condition, the length of the elastic members 68 which have adhesive coupled thereto can provide an active flap elastic region 70 in the containment flaps 50, 52, as labeled in FIG. 2, which will gather upon relaxation of the absorbent article 10. The active flap elastic region 70 of containment flaps 50, 52 can be of a longitudinal length that is less than the length of the absorbent article 10, 210. In this example method of bonding the elastic members 68 to the containment flaps 50, 52, the portion of the elastic members 68 not coated with adhesive, will retract after the elastic members 68 and the absorbent article 10 are cut in manufacturing to form an individual absorbent article 10. As noted above, the relaxing of the elastic members 68 in the active flap elastic region 70 when the absorbent article 10, 210 is in a relaxed condition can cause each containment flap 50, 52 to gather and cause the projection portion 66 of each containment flap 50, 52 to extend away from the body facing surface 19 of the chassis 11 (e.g., the body facing surface 45 of the absorbent assembly 44 or the body facing surface 56 of the bodyside liner 28), as depicted in FIG. 5.

[0135] Of course, the elastic members 68 can be bonded to the containment flaps 50, 52 in various other ways as known by those of skill in the art to provide an active flap elastic region 70, which is within the scope of this disclosure. Additionally, the active flap elastic regions 70 can be shorter or longer than depicted herein, including extending to the front waist edge 22 and the rear waist edge 24, and still be within the scope of this disclosure.

[0136] Leg Elastics:

[0137] Leg elastic members 60, 62 can be secured to the outer cover 26, such as by being bonded thereto by laminate adhesive, generally laterally inward of the longitudinal side edges, 18 and 20, of the absorbent article 10, 210. The leg elastic members 60, 62 can form elasticized leg cuffs that further help to contain body exudates. In an implementation, the leg elastic members 60, 62 may be disposed between inner and outer layers (not shown) of the outer cover 26 or between other layers of the absorbent article 10, for example, between the base portion 64 of each containment flap 50, 52 and the bodyside liner 28 as depicted in FIG.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0138] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 5. between the base portion 64 of each containment flap 50, 52 and the outer cover 26, or between the bodyside liner 28 and the outer cover 26. The leg elastic members 60, 62 can be one or more elastic components near each longitudinal side edge 18, 20. For example, the leg elastic members 60, 62 as illustrated herein each include two elastic strands. A wide variety of elastomeric materials may be used for the leg elastic members 60, 62.

[0139] Suitable elastomeric materials can include sheets, strands or ribbons of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, or thermoplastic elastomeric materials. The elastomeric materials can be stretched and secured to a substrate, secured to a gathered substrate, or secured to a substrate and then elasticized or shrunk, for example, with the application of heat, such that the elastic retractive forces are imparted to the substrate. Additionally, it is contemplated that the leg elastic members 60, 62 can be formed with the containment flaps 50, 52, and then attached to the chassis 11 in some implementations. Of course, the leg elastic members 60, 62 can be omitted from the absorbent article 10, 210 without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0140] Waist Containment Member:

[0141] In an implementation, the absorbent article 10, 210 can have one or more waist containment members 54. The waist containment member(s) 54 can be disposed in the rear waist region 14 as illustrated in FIGS. 2-6. In general, the waist containment member 54 can help contain and / or absorb body exudates, especially low viscosity fecal matter, and as such, can be preferred to be in the rear waist region 14. In some implementations, the absorbent article 10, 210 can have a waist containment member 54 disposed in the front waist region 12. A waist containment member 54 in the front waist region 12 can help contain and / or absorb body exudates, such as urine, in the front waist region 12. Although not as prevalent as in the rear waist region 14, in some circumstances, fecal material may also spread to the front waist region 12, and thus, a waist containment member 54 disposed in the front waist region 12 can help contain and / or absorb body exudates as well. In other implementations, the absorbent article 10, 210 can have a waist containment member 54 in both the rear waist region 14 and the front waist region 12.

[0142] The waist containment member 54 can be disposed on the body facing surface 45 of the absorbent assembly 44. In some implementations, such as in implementations illustrated in FIGS. 2-3 and 6, the waist containment member 54 can be disposed on the body facingKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0143] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 surface 56 of the body side liner 28. However, in some implementations, such as the absorbent article 210 in FIG. 4, the waist containment member 54 can be disposed on a body facing surface 58 of the rear waist panel 15.

[0144] The waist containment member 54 can include a first longitudinal side edge 72 and a second longitudinal side edge 74. The first longitudinal side edge 72 can be opposite from the second longitudinal side edge 74. The distance between the first longitudinal side edge 72 and the second longitudinal side edge 74 can define a width 51 of the waist containment member 54 in the lateral direction 32, as shown in FIG. 2.

[0145] As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 5, the waist containment member 54 can be configured such that the first longitudinal side edge 72 can be disposed laterally outward of the proximal end 64a of the base portion 64 of the containment flap 50. Similarly, the waist containment member 54 can be configured such that the second longitudinal side edge 74 can be disposed laterally outward of the proximal end 64a of the base portion 64 of the containment flap 52. The waist containment member 54 can be configured such that the width 51 of the waist containment member 54 can be greater than a lateral distance between longitudinal extending fold lines 25a, 25b, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 5.

[0146] The waist containment member 54 can also include a proximal portion (not shown) and a distal portion 78. 'The proximal portion can be coupled to the body facing surface 19 of chassis 11 (e.g., the body facing surface 45 of the absorbent assembly 44 or the body facing surface 56 of the bodyside liner 28) whereas the distal portion 78 of the waist containment member 54 can be free to move with respect to the chassis 11 and the absorbent assembly 44 when the absorbent article 10, 210 is in the relaxed configuration, such as shown in FIG. 5. When the waist containment member 54 is in a relaxed configuration, the distal portion 78 extends away from the chassis 11 and absorbent assembly 44 in a vertical direction, which is perpendicular to the plane defined by the longitudinal axis 29 and the lateral axis 31. A fold 79a can separate the proximal portion from the distal portion 78 of the waist containment member 54. As used in this context, the fold 79a separates the proximal portion from the distal portion 78 in that the fold 79a defines a transition between the proximal portion and the distal portion 78.

[0147] In some implementations, the proximal portion of the waist containment member 54 can be coupled to the body facing surface 56 of the body side liner 28. In otherKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0148] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 implementations, the proximal portion of the waist containment member 54 can be coupled to the body facing surface 58 of the rear waist panel 15. The proximal portion can be coupled to the body facing surface 45 by an adhesive, by pressure bonding, by ultrasonic bonding, by thermal bonding, and combinations thereof.

[0149] Because tlie distal portion 78 of the waist containment member 54 can freely move with respect to the absorbent assembly 44 when the absorbent article 10, 210 is in the relaxed configuration, the distal portion 78 can help provide a containment pocket 82 when the absorbent article 10, 210 is in the relaxed configuration. The containment pocket 82 can help provide a barrier to contain and / or can help absorb body exudates. The containment pocket 82 can be especially beneficial for containing and / or absorbing low viscosity fecal matter, which can be prevalent in younger children. The first longitudinal side edge 72 can be disposed laterally outward of the proximal end 64a of the base portion 64 of the containment flap 50, and thus, the containment pocket 82 can extend laterally outward of the proximal end 64a of the containment flap 50. Similarly, the second longitudinal side edge 74 can be disposed laterally outward of the proximal end 64a of the base portion 64 of tlie containment flap 52 and the containment pocket 82 can extend laterally outward of the proximal end 64a of the containment flap 52. Such a configuration provides waist containment member 54 with a wide containment pocket 82 to contain and / or absorb body exudates.

[0150] To help prevent lateral flow of body exudates that are contained by the containment pocket 82 of tlie waist containment member 54, the distal portion 78 of the waist containment member 54 can be bonded to the proximal portion of the waist containment member 54 and / or the body facing surface 19 of the chassis 11 near the first and second longitudinal side edges 72, 74, respectively. For example, FIG. 5 depicts tack-down regions 84 where the distal portion 78 of the waist containment member 54 can be bonded to tlie proximal portion of the waist containment member 54 and / or the body facing surface 19 of the chassis 11.

[0151] In preferred implementations, the waist containment member 54 can include at least one elastic member and even more elastic members in further implementations. Generally, the elastic member can span substantially from the first longitudinal side edge 72 to the second longitudinal side edge 74 of the waist containment member 54. The elastic member can be disposed in the distal portion 78 of the waist containment member 54, and preferably, is located near a free edge 88 of the distal portion 78 of the waist containment member 54.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0152] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 A wide variety of elastomeric materials may be used for the elastic member(s) in the waist containment member 54. Suitable elastomeric materials can include sheets, strands or ribbons of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, elastic foams, or thermoplastic elastomeric materials (e.g., films). The elastomeric materials can be stretched and secured to a substrate forming the waist containment member 54, secured to a gathered substrate, or secured to a substrate and then elasticized or shrunk, for example, with the application of heat, such that the elastic retractive forces are imparted to the substrate forming the waist containment member 54.

[0153] The waist containment member 54 can be disposed to be coupled to the chassis 11 by being placed either over the containment flaps 50, 52 or under the containment flaps 50, 52. More specifically, the waist containment member 54 can be disposed on the body facing surface 19 of the chassis 11 such that the proximal portion of the waist containment member 54 is disposed over the base portion 64 of the first and the second containment flaps 50, 52, respectively. Alternatively, the waist containment member 54 can be disposed on the body¬ facing surface 19 of the chassis 11 such that the proximal portion of the waist containment member 54 is disposed under the base portion 64 of the first and the second containment flaps 50, 52, respectively. Both configurations can provide advantages to the functioning of the waist containment member 54 to contain and / or absorb body exudates.

[0154] Where the proximal portion of the waist containment member 54 is disposed over the base portion 64 of the containment flaps 50, 52, the containment flaps 50, 52 can have an active flap elastic region 70 that longitudinally overlaps with the distal portion 78 of the waist containment member 54 when the absorbent article 10 is in the stretched, laid flat configuration, such as illustrated in FIG. 2. Additionally or alternatively, the tack-down region 71 may not extend from the rear waist edge 24 to the free edge 88 of the distal portion 78 of the waist containment member 54, such as illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0155] Where the proximal portion of the waist containment member 54 is disposed under the base portion 64 of the containment flaps 50, 52, the tack-down region 71 of the projection portion 66 of each of the containment flaps 50, 52 may longitudinally overlap with the distal portion 78 of the waist containment member 54. In some of these implementations, the tack¬ down region 71 of projection portion 66 of each of the containment flaps 50, 52 can extend toKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0156] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 the free edge 88 of the waist containment member 54 to further assist in containing exudates to the containment pocket 82 created by the waist containment member 54.

[0157] The waist containment member 54 can be comprised of a variety of materials. In a preferred implementation, the waist containment member 54 can be comprised of a spunbond-meltblown-spunbond (“SMS”) material. However, it is contemplated that the waist containment member 54 can be comprised of other materials including, but not limited to, a spunbond-film-spunbond (“SFS”), a bonded carded web (“BOW”), or any non-woven material. In some implementations, the waist containment member 54 can be comprised of a laminate of more than one of these example materials, or other materials. In some implementations, the waist containment member 54 can be comprised of a liquid impermeable material. In some implementations, the waist containment member 54 can be comprised of a material coated with a hydrophobic coating. The basis weight of the material forming the waist containment member 54 can vary, however, in a preferred implementation, the basis weight can be between 8 gsm to 120 gsm, not including the elastic members 86 in the waist containment member 54. More preferably, the basis weight of the material comprising the waist containment member 54 can be between 10 gsm to 40 gsm, and even more preferably, between 15 gsm to 25 gsm.

[0158] In various implementations, the absorbent article 10 can include a fastening system, wherein the fastening system includes the hybrid fastening system according to the present disclosure. The hybrid fastening system can include one or more back fasteners 91 and one or more front fasteners 92. In some implementations, the one or more front fasteners 92 may each comprise the first fastening element (including the first contact layer) and the one or more back fasteners 91 may each comprise the second fastening element (include the second contact layer). In other implementations, one or more front fasteners 92 may each comprise the second fastening element (including the second contact layer) and the one or more back fasteners 91 may each comprise the first fastening element (including the first contact layer). The implementations shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 depict implementations with one front fastener 92. Portions of the hybrid fastening system may be included in the front waist region 12, rear waist region 14, or both.

[0159] The hybrid fastening system can be configured to secure the absorbent article 10 the waist of the wearer in a fastened condition as shown in FIG. 1 and help maintain theKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0160] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 absorbent article 10 in place during use. In an implementation, the back fasteners 91 can include one or more hybrid fastening systems according to the present disclosure, the materials bonded together to form a composite ear as is known in the ait. For example, the hybrid fastening system may include a stretch component 94 and a first fastening element comprised of a base 96 and a first contact layer 98 (as labeled in FIG. 2). In certain implementations, the base 96 may comprise a backing layer secured to the first contact layer 98 as described above. In some implementations, the base 96 is a nonwoven earner or hook base, which can directly contact the first contact layer 98. In certain implementations, first contact layer 98 may be configured to configured for being removably fastened to the second contact layer 92, as labeled in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 5, in some implementations the waist containment member 54 can extend to back fasteners 91. In some implementations, the waist containment member 54 can be coupled to the stretch component 94 of the back fasteners 91, either directly or indirectly. In some implementations, the waist containment member 54 can extend to the longitudinal side edges 18, 20 of the absorbent article 10, 210.

[0161] In some implementations, the absorbent article’s one or more back fasteners 91 may include the first contact layer 98 and base 96 disposed on an inward-facing face of stretch layer 94 (e.g., such that first contact layer 98 directly contacts a second contact layer of the one or more front fasteners 92). In further implementations, a further second contact layer can be disposed on the opposite (outward-facing face) of stretch layer 94 (not shown) such that a first stretch layer 94 can be overlapped with a second stretch layer 94 to provide an alternative fastening interface between first and second contact layers.

[0162] Absorbent Body:

[0163] The absorbent body 34 can be suitably constructed to be generally compressible, conformable, pliable, non-irritating to the wearer’s skin and capable of absorbing and retaining liquid body exudates. The absorbent body 34 can be manufactured in a wide variety of sizes and shapes (for example, rectangular, trapezoidal, T-shape, I-shape, hourglass shape, etc.) and from a wide variety of materials. The size and the absorbent capacity of the absorbent body 34 should be compatible with the size of the intended wearer (infants to adults) and the liquid loading imparted by the intended use of the absorbent article 10, 210. The absorbent body 34 can have a length and width that can be less than or equal to the length and width of the absorbent article 10, 210.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0164] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 In an implementation, the absorbent body 34 can be composed of absorbent material, such as fibrous absorbent material and / or superabsorbent material, binder materials, surfactants, selected hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials, pigments, lotions, odor control agents or the like, as well as combinations thereof. In an implementation, the absorbent body 34 can be a matrix of cellulosic fluff and superabsorbent material. In another implementation, the absorbent material of the absorbent body 34 can comprise only superabsorbent material. In an implementation, the absorbent body 34 may be constructed of a single layer of materials, or in the alternative, may be constructed of two or more layers of materials.

[0165] When composed at least partially of fibrous material, various types of wettable, hydrophilic fibers can be used in the absorbent body 34. Examples of suitable fibers include natural fibers, cellulosic fibers, synthetic fibers composed of cellulose or cellulose derivatives, such as rayon fibers; inorganic fibers composed of an inherently wettable material, such as glass fibers; synthetic fibers made from inherently wettable thermoplastic polymers, such as particular polyester or polyamide fibers, or composed of nonwettable thermoplastic polymers, such as polyolefin fibers which have been hydrophilized by suitable means. The fibers may be hydrophilized, for example, by treatment with a surfactant, treatment with silica, treatment with a material which has a suitable hydrophilic moiety and is not readily removed from the fiber, or by sheathing the nonwettable, hydrophobic fiber with a hydrophilic polymer during or after formation of the fiber.

[0166] When composed at least partially of superabsorbent materials, such superabsorbent materials can be selected from natural, synthetic, and modified natural polymers and materials. The superabsorbent materials can be inorganic materials, such as silica gels, or organic compounds, such as cross-linked polymers.

[0167] If a spacer layer 48 is present, the absorbent body 34 can be disposed on the spacer layer 48 and superposed over the outer cover 26. The spacer layer 48 can be bonded to the outer cover 26, for example, by adhesive. In some implementations, a spacer layer 48 may not be present and the absorbent body 34 can directly contact the outer cover 26 and can be directly bonded to the outer cover 26. However, it is to be understood that the absorbent body 34 may be in contact with, and not bonded with, the outer cover 26 and remain within the scope of tills disclosure. In an implementation, the outer cover 26 can be composed of a single layer and the absorbent body 34 can be in contact with the singer layer of the outerKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0168] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 cover 26. 1 n some implementations, at least a portion of a layer, such as but not limited to, a fluid transfer layer 46 and / or a spacer layer 48, can be positioned between the absorbent body 34 and the outer cover 26, such as illustrated in FIG. 5. The absorbent body 34 can be bonded to the fluid transfer layer 46 and / or the spacer layer 48.

[0169] Although the FIGS. 2-6 focus on description of a diaper absorbent article 10, 210, it should be understood that the hybrid fastening system of the present disclosure may be used in any absorbent article - including but not limited to diapers, diaper pants, training pants, youth pants, swim pants, feminine hygiene products, including, but not limited to, menstrual pads or pants, incontinence products and other adult care garments, medical garments, surgical pads and bandages, other personal care or health care garments, and the like.

[0170] EXAMPLES

[0171] The following examples are for the purpose of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any manner whatsoever.

[0172] Single A layer or AB multi-layer film laminates were produced using a coextrusion system (A-cohesive layer, B-back layer). Resins including VISTAMAXX™ 6102FL, a propylene-based thermoplastic elastomer available from Exxon Mobil, Houston, Texas; and various Kraton D and G, styrene block copolymers available from Kraton Polymers, Houston Texas, were dry blended. The resulting mixture was fed into a 1.5” Trinity II Killion Extruder (Killion Industries, Vista, California) with a temperature profile set to 185-230°C.

[0173] Simultaneously, the back plastic layer was prepared by feeding either Dowlex 2416 (a linear low-density polyethylene available from Dow Chemical, Midland, Michigan), HD6719 (a high-density polyethylene available from Exxon Mobil, Houston, Texas), or M2252 (a polypropylene available from Total Petrochemical, Houston, Texas) into a 1.25” B Killion Extruder (Killion Industries, Vista, California) with a temperature profile of 170-230°C. The AB layer molten polymers were coextruded through a 20-inch film die and collected with the drill roll set at 10°C and a take-up speed of 10-15 feet per minute (fpm), which resulted in a film basis weight 50-100 gsm. Each film was cut into 8” (machine direction) by 2” (transverse direction) samples.

[0174] The peel and shear strength of the multilayer samples were tested by an MTS tensile machine. The samples were then cut into the same specimen size and physical properties were measured as described in the following Tables.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0175] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 Peel Test: Two films were engaged using a handheld roller (4.5 lbs.) passed over the engaging area twice (once forward and once back). Peel tests using a T-peel were performed for samples having been engaged for 10 minutes, samples having been engaged for 2 hours, and for immediate engagement and multiple reattachments. Peel testing was performed, and the speed of separation was 300 mm / min. A 100N load cell was used for force measurements, which was calibrated prior to each set of testing. A peak peel and an average peel were recorded. A series of 5 specimens were tested for each sample. In the reattachment test, each sample sat for 1 minute after rolling before conducting a T-peel. This process was repeated six times (or until damaged) by rolling the strips again, waiting one minute, and then conducting the T-peel.

[0176] Table 1 shows various hybrid film properties for polymer films used in the peel test. Table 2 shows results for the peel test for various hybrid fastening systems having a first fastening element and a second fastening element. Table 3 shows peel strength growth over time for certain hybrid fastening systems.

[0177] Table 1

[0178] Chemical Compatibility with Crystallinity% (DSC or

[0179] Polymer film Density g / cm Styrene Block Copolymers literature)

[0180] VMX7050 yes <20% 0.865 LLDPE (Dowlex 2047) yes 30-50% 0.918 HDPE (HD 6719) yes 70-80%' 0.952 PP (PP 3684) yes 50-60%' 0.9 EVA 727.22 (18% VA) less <30% 0.94 LLDPE (Dowlex 2047) with

[0181]

[0182] 35% CaCOj less

[0183] Table 2

[0184] Peel Test (g / 50mm)

[0185] 1stFastening 2ndFastening Element

[0186] Element

[0187] Self Self VMX7050 Dowlex2047 PP3684 HDPE6719 EVA PE / CaCO3(lOmin) (20hr) 85%G1645

[0188] 1000 -1000 500 270 360 180 15%EVA761

[0189] 80%G1645

[0190] 1090 1050 680 320 540 140 20%VMX6102

[0191] 80%D1114

[0192] 950 1180 640 270 680 270 1540 2360 20%FG1924

[0193]

[0194] KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0195] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 80%D1114 1000 1140 640 270 730 90 1590 3310 20%VMX6102

[0196] Hybrid film

[0197] 60

[0198] (VMX 7050)

[0199] Hybrid film

[0200] — <40 — - — — (Dowlex2047)

[0201]

[0202] Table 3

[0203] Hastening System Peel strength (g / 50mm) after indicated time

[0204] 1stElement 2ndElement 10 ruin 20 hr 48 hr 10 day 80% DI 114 80% DI 114

[0205] 1390 3310 >4540

[0206] 20% VMX6102 20% VMX6102

[0207] 80% DI 114 VMX7050

[0208] 1000 1270 2100

[0209]

[0210] 20% VMX6102

[0211] Table 4 shows typical cohesive peel strengths over time from the AB multilayer film made from A layer with Kraton D and G polymers and B layer with PP. EG 1924 is a linear triblock copolymer based on styrene and ethylene / butylene available from Kraton Polymers LLC. DI 161 is a linear triblock copolymer based on styrene and isoprene available from Kraton Polymers LLC. As shown in Table 4, a range of different peel values were measured at fastening times up to 2 weeks. The peel strength increases more than 50% in 2 hours, doubles in 24 hours, and more than triples after 1 week. It is known that if the peel strength >1800 g / 50mm it can be difficult to remove the attachment without damaging the cohesive film material.

[0212] Table 4

[0213] Fastening System Peel strength (g / 50mm) after indicated time

[0214] 1stElement 2IldElement 10 min 2 hr 24 hr 1 wk 2 wk D1161 PP2252 370 570

[0215] 75% DI 161 PP2252

[0216] 680 1030 1470 2450 2430 25% EVA

[0217] 75% DI 161 PP2252

[0218] 380 610 860 1360 1380

[0219]

[0220] 25% FG1924

[0221] Table 5 shows the peel strength for various cohesive fasteners as well hybrid fasteners in which inherently non-tacky and non-cohesive polyolefin Vistaniaxx (VMX) film was fastened with cohesive films. Septon 2063 is a styrene-ethylene-propylene-styrene (SEPS) elastomer available from Kuraray Company lad. Surprisingly, the peel strength was muchKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0222] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 higher (900-1200 g / 50mm) from the hybrid cohesive fastenings than with various cohesive films. In contrast, the non-cohesive VMX film showed a very low peel (-60 g / 50mm) when engaged with itself. The cohesive fastening (engaged with itself) indicated the peel strength kept growing higher (from 1200 g / 50mm to 2.090 g / 50mm) compared to the hybrid cohesive fastening (from 1200 to 1490 g / 50mm) as shown in the last two rows of Table 5 during fastening (even over 48 hours).

[0223] It is known that fastening with a peel force >800 g / 50mm, and shear strength >10 kg / sq.in. can provide a secure fastening for a user (e.g., a secure fastening for absorbent articles). Depending on the application, a cohesive peel strength from 600-1500 g / 50mm would be able to provide a secure fastening with relatively easy removal and refastening.

[0224] Table 5

[0225] Fastening System

[0226] Peel Strength Peel Strength

[0227] 1stElement 2ndElement Shear Strength after 10 min after 48 hr

[0228] VMX7050 VMX7050 60 g / 50mm 70 g / 50mm -2 kg gf / sq. in. VMX7050 G1645 950 g / 50mm 1360 g / 50mm >10 kg gf / sq. in. VMX7050 85% G1645

[0229] 1000 g / 50inm 1730 g / 50mm >10 kg gf / sq. in.

[0230] 15% EVA

[0231] VMX7050 80% G1645

[0232] 910 g / 50mm 1730 g / 50mtn >10 kg gf / sq. in.

[0233] 20%' FG1924

[0234] VMX7050 80%' G1645

[0235] 1140 g / 50mm 1410 g / 50mm >10 kg gf / sq. in.

[0236] 20% 6102

[0237] VMX7050 Septon 2063 1200 g / 50mm 1490 g / 50mm >10 kg gf / sq. in.

[0238]

[0239] Septon 2063 Septon 2063 1200 g / 50mm 2090 g / 50mm >10 kg gf / sq. in.

[0240] Table 6 shows further comparison of peel strength for cohesive fastening (cohesive engaged with itself) vs. hybrid cohesive fastening (cohesive engaged with polyolefin Vistamaxx film) with different fastening times. The peel strength of hybrid cohesive fastening is relatively stable and flat after 48-hour fastening. However, the peel strength of the cohesive fasteners becomes higher (more than doubled) after 48-hour fastening. The excess high peel strength for the cohesive fasteners can make removal and refastening difficult or impossible without damaging the cohesive film.

[0241] Table 6

[0242] Fastening System

[0243] 1stElement 2ndElement 10 min peel 48 hr peel Shear strength Hybrid Fasteners

[0244] 75% DI 114 VMX7050 - 10 kg gf / sq. in.

[0245] 680 g / 50mm 730 g / 50mtn

[0246]

[0247] material fail*KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0248] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 25% EVA SB Therma

[0249] laminate

[0250] 70% G1657 VMX7050

[0251] 15% VMX6102 1250 g / 50mm 1860 g / 50mm »10 kg gf / sq. in.

[0252] 15% EVA

[0253] Cohesive Fasteners

[0254] 75% DI 114 75% DI 114

[0255] 25% EVA SB 25% EVA SB 1050 g / 50mm 2720 g / 50mm >10 kg gf / sq. in. Therma laminate Therma laminate

[0256] 70% G1657 70% G1657

[0257] 15% VMX6102 15% VMX6102 1650 g / 50mm 4770 g / 50mm »10 kg gf / sq, in.

[0258]

[0259] 15% EVA 15% EVA

[0260] *Material fail indicates the film was broken

[0261] The compositions and methods of the appended claims are not limited in scope by the specific compositions and methods described herein, which are intended as illustrations of a few aspects of the claims and any compositions and methods that are functionally equivalent are intended to fall within the scope of the claims. Various modifications of the compositions and methods in addition to those shown and described herein are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. Further, while only certain representative compositions and method steps disclosed herein are specifically described, other combinations of the compositions and method steps also are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims, even if not specifically recited. Thus, a combination of steps, elements, components, or constituents may be explicitly mentioned herein or less, however, other combinations of steps, elements, components, and constituents are included, even though not explicitly stated. The term “comprising” and variations thereof as used herein is used synonymously with the term “including” and variations thereof and are open, non-limiting terms. Although the terms “comprising” and “including” have been used herein to describe various implementations, the terms “consisting essentially of’ and “consisting of’ can be used in place of “comprising” and “including” to provide for more specific implementations and are also disclosed. Other than in the examples, or where otherwise noted, all numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, reaction conditions, and so forth used in the specification and claims are to be understood at the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, to be construed in light of the number of significant digits and ordinary rounding approaches.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0262] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 EXAMPLE IMPLEMENTATIONS

[0263] In view of the described compositions, systems, and methods, hereinbelow are described certain more particularly described aspects of the disclosures. These particularly recited aspects should not, however, be interpreted to have any limiting effect on any different claims containing different or more general teachings described herein, or that the “particular” aspects are somehow limited in some way other than the inherent meanings of the language and formulas literally used therein.

[0264] Example 1. A hybrid fastening system for an absorbent article, the hybrid fastening system comprising: a first fastening element comprising a first contact layer, and a second fastening element comprising a second contact layer, the second fastening element configured for being removably fastened to the first fastening element when the second contact layer is in physical contact with the first contact layer; wherein the first contact layer comprises a thermoplastic styrene block copolymer and a thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer, wherein the total styrene content in the first contact layer is less than 30 wt.,% relative to the weight of the first contact layer, and wherein the thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer is present in an amount less than 50 wt.% relative to the weight of the first contact layer; and wherein the second contact layer comprises a polyolefin having a crystallinity of less than 70% as measured by DSC.

[0265] Example 2. The hybrid fastening system of Example 1, wherein the first contact layer comprises a polymeric film or polymeric fibrous web.

[0266] Example 3. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the total styrene content in the first contact layer is from 0.1-29 wt.%, from 1-5 wt.%, from 5-10 wt.%, from 1-10 wt.%, from 5-15 wt.%, from 10-20 wt.%, from 1-25 wt.%, or from 20-29 wt.% relative to the weight of the first contact layer.

[0267] Example 4. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the first contact layer comprises the thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer in an amount from 1-49 wt.%, from 1-25 wt.%, from 25-40 wt.%, from 1-10 wt.%, from 5-15 wt.%, from 10-20 wt.%, from 10-30 wt.%, from 15-25 wt.%, from 20-30 wt.%, from 20-40 wt.%, from 25-35 wt.%, from 30-40 wt.%, or from 40-49 wt.% relative to the w'eight of the first contact layer.

[0268] Example 5. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the thermoplastic styrene block copolymer in the first contact layer comprises a styrene-olefin-styrene block polymer.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0269] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 Example 6. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the thermoplastic styrene block copolymer in the first contact layer comprises an unhydrogenated styrene-olefin-styrene block copolymer, a hydrogenated styrene-olefin-styrene linear or branched, di or tri, or multi block copolymer, or a combination thereof.

[0270] Example 7. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the thermoplastic styrene block copolymer in the first contact layer comprises a styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer, a styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer, a styrene-ethylene-styrene block copolymer, a styrene-propylene-styrene block copolymer, a styrene-butylene-styrene block copolymer, a styrene-propylene-ethylene-styrene block copolymer, a styrene-butylene-ethylene-styrene block copolymer, or a combination thereof.

[0271] Example 8. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the first contact layer comprises a styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer, a hydrogenated styrene -isoprene-styrene block copolymer, or a combination thereof.

[0272] Example 9. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer in the first contact layer comprises a homopolymer or a copolymer of an α-olefin having 1 to 12 carbon atoms.

[0273] Example 10. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the second contact layer comprises a polymeric film or polymeric fibrous web.

[0274] Example 11. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the polyolefin in the second contact layer has a crystallinity from 5-70%, from 5-60%, from 5-50%, from 20-60%, or from 30-50% as measured by DSC.

[0275] Example 12. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the polyolefin in the second contact layer has a density from 0.85 to 0.94 g / cm3or from 0.90 to 0.92 g / cm3.

[0276] Example 13. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the second contact layer comprises a low tack polyolefin.

[0277] Example 14. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when two of the same second contact layers are held in a fastened condition for 10 minutes, the peel force required to disengage the elements is less than 100 g / 50 mm.

[0278] Example 15. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the second contact layer comprises polyethylene, polypropylene, a copolymer thereof, or a combination thereof.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0279] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 Example 16. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the second contact layer consists of polyethylene, polypropylene, a copolymer of alpha olefins with C1-C12 carbon atoms thereof, or a combination thereof.

[0280] Example 17. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the second contact layer consists of a polyolefin copolymer and a styrene block copolymer in an amount from 0% to less than 50% by weight.

[0281] Example 18. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the second contact layer comprises polyethylene, polypropylene, a copolymer thereof, or a combination thereof in an amount of at least 60 wt.%, at least 70 wt.%, at least 80 wt.%, at least 90%, at least 95 wt.%, or at least 98 wt.%.

[0282] Example 19. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the second contact layer comprises: a first polymer comprising polyethylene, polypropylene, a copolymer thereof, or a combination thereof, and a second polymer comprising polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid, ethylene vinyl acetate, a poly(methyl)methacrylate polymer or copolymer, or a combination thereof.

[0283] Example 20. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the polyolefin in the second contact layer comprises LLDPE, LDPE, MDPE, UHMWPE, PP, SBC or a combination thereof.

[0284] Example 21. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the second contact layer comprises: a first polymer comprising polyethylene, polypropylene, or a copolymer thereof having a MWwof 50,000-1,000,000 and a second polymer comprising polyethylene, polypropylene, or a copolymer thereof having a MWw from 10,000-500,000 Da.

[0285] Example 22. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein: when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 10 minutes, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 300 g / 50 mm to 2000 g / 50 mm; and when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 48 hours, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 450 g / 50 mm to 3000 g / 50 mm.

[0286] Example 23. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 10 minutes, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 300 g / 50KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0287] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 mm to 2000 g / 50 mm, from 500g / 50 mm to 1500 g / 50 mm, or from 800 g / 50 mm to 1200 g / 50 mm.

[0288] Example 24. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 24 hours, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 400 g / 50 mm to 2500 g / 50 mm, from 600 g / 50 mm to 2000 g / 50 mm, from 600 g / 50 mm to 1,500 g / 50 mm, or from 850 g / 50 mm to 1500 g / 50 mm.

[0289] Example 25. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 24 hours, the peel force required to disengage the elements is 15-50% greater, 15-40% greater, 15-30% greater, 20-30% greater, or about 25% greater than the peel force required after 10 minutes.

[0290] Example 26. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 48 hours, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 450 g / 50 mm to 3000 g / 50 mm, from 750 g / 50 mm to 2250 g / 50 mm, or from 1200 g / 50 mm to 2000 g / 50 mm.

[0291] Example 27. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 48 hours, the peel force required to disengage the elements is 25-100%’ greater, 25-75% greater, 30-70% greater, 40-60% greater, or about 50% greater than the peel force required after 10 minutes.

[0292] Example 28. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 10 minutes, the shear force required to disengage the elements is at least 4 kg / sq. in.

[0293] Example 29. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 2 hours, the shear force required to disengage the elements is at least 6 kg / sq. in.

[0294] Example 30. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastenedKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0295] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 condition for 24 hours, the shear force required to disengage the elements is at least 8 kg / sq. in.

[0296] Example 31. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 48 hours, the shear force required to disengage the elements is at least 10 kg / sq. in.

[0297] Example 32. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the second contact layer is engaged with another second contact layer having the same composition, the peel force required to disengage them is less than 100 g / 50 mm.

[0298] Example 33. An absorbent article comprising the hybrid fastening system according to any of the examples herein.

[0299] Example 34. The absorbent article of any of the examples herein, wherein the absorbent article is a wearable article.

[0300] Example 35. The absorbent article of any of the examples herein, wherein the absorbent article is a diaper, diaper pant, training pant, youth pant, swim pant, feminine hygiene product, incontinence product and other adult care garment, medical garment, surgical pad or bandage, or other personal care or health care garment.

[0301] Example 36. A hybrid fastening system for an absorbent article, the hybrid fastening system comprising: a first fastening element comprising a first contact layer, and

[0302] a second fastening element comprising a second contact layer, the second fastening element configured for being removably fastened to the first fastening element when the second contact layer is in physical contact with the first contact layer: when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 10 minutes, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 300 g / 50 mm to 2.000 g / 50 mm; and when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 48 hours, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 450 g / 50 mm to 3000 g / 50 mm.

[0303] Example 37. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein wherein, when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 10 minutes, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 300 g / 50 mm to 2000 g / 50 mm, from 500 g / 50 mm to 1500 g / 50 mm, or from 800 g / 50 mm to 1200 g / 50 mm; and wherein, when the first fastening element and second fastening element areKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0304] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 held in a fastened condition for 48 hours, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 450 g / 50 mm to 3000 g / 50 mm, from 750 g / 50 mm to 2250 g / 50 mm, or from 1200 g / 50 mm to 2000 g / 50 mm.

[0305] Example 38. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the first contact layer comprises a thermoplastic styrene block copolymer and a thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer, wherein the total styrene content in the first contact layer is less than 30 wt.% relative to the weight of the first contact layer, and wherein the thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer is present in an amount less than 50 wt.% relative to the weight of the first contact layer; and wherein the second contact layer comprises a polymer having a crystallinity of less than 70%’ as measured by DSC.

[0306] Example 39. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the first contact layer comprises a polymeric film or polymeric web.

[0307] Example 40. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the total styrene content in the first contact layer is from 0.1-29 wt.%, from 1-5 wt.%, from 5-10 wt.%, from 1-10 wt.%, from 5-15 wt.%, from 10-20 wt.%, from 15-25 wt.%, or from 20-29 wt.% relative to the weight of the first contact layer.

[0308] Example 41. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the first contact layer comprises the thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer in an amount from 1-49 wt.%, from 1-25 wt.%, from 25-40 wt.%, from 1-10 wt.%, from 5-1 wt.%, from 10-20 wt.%>, from 10-30 wt.%, from 15-25 wt.%, from 20-30 wt.%>, from 20-40 wt.%, from 25-35 wt.%, from 30-40 wt.%, or from 40-49 wt.% relative to the weight of the first contact layer.

[0309] Example 42. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the thermoplastic styrene block copolymer in the first contact layer comprises a styrene-olefin-styrene block polymer.

[0310] Example 43. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the thermoplastic styrene block copolymer in the first contact layer comprises an unhydrogenated styrene-olefin-styrene block copolymer, a hydrogenated styrene-olefin-styrene linear or branched, di or tri, or multi block copolymer, or a combination thereof.

[0311] Example 44. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the thermoplastic styrene block copolymer in the first contact layer comprises a styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer, a styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer, a styrene-ethylene-styrene block copolymer, a styrene-propylene-styrene block copolymer, a styrene-butylene-KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0312] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 styrene block copolymer, a styrene-propylene-ethylene-styrene block copolymer, a styrene-butylene-ethylene-styrene block copolymer, or a combination thereof.

[0313] Example 45. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the first contact layer comprises a styrene -isoprene- styrene block copolymer, a hydrogenated styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer, or a combination thereof.

[0314] Example 46. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer in the first contact layer comprises a homopolymer or a copolymer of an α-olefin having 1 to 12 carbon atoms.

[0315] Example 47. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the second contact layer comprises a polymeric film or polymeric web.

[0316] Example 48. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the polyolefin in the second contact layer has a crystallinity from 5-70%, from 5-60%, from 5-50%, from 20-60%, or from 30-50% as measured by DSC.

[0317] Example 49. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the polyolefin in the second contact layer has a density from 0.85 to 0.94 g / cm3or from 0.90 to 0.92 g / cm3.

[0318] Example 50. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the second contact layer comprises a low tack polyolefin.

[0319] Example 51. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the second contact layer comprises polyethylene, polypropylene, a copolymer thereof, or a combination thereof.

[0320] Example 52. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the second contact layer consists of polyethylene, polypropylene, a copolymer thereof, or a combination thereof.

[0321] Example 53. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the second contact layer comprises polyethylene, polypropylene, a copolymer thereof, or a combination thereof in an amount of at least 60 wt.%, at least 70 wt.%, at least 80 wt.%, at least 90%, at least 95 wt.%, or at least 98 wt.%.

[0322] Example 54. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the second contact layer comprises: a first polymer comprising polyethylene, polypropylene, a copolymer thereof, or a combination thereof, and a second polymer comprising polyvinylKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0323] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 alcohol, polyacrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid, ethylene vinyl acetate, a poly(methyl)methacrylate polymer or copolymer, or a combination thereof.

[0324] Example 55. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the polyolefin in the second contact comprises LLDPE, LDPE, MDPE, UHMWPE, PP, or a combination thereof.

[0325] Example 56. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein the second contact layer comprises: a first polymer comprising polyethylene, polypropylene, or a copolymer thereof having a MWwof 50,000-1,000,000 Da, and a second polymer comprising polyethylene, polypropylene, or a copolymer thereof having a MWwfrom 10,000-500,000 Da.

[0326] Example 57. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 10 minutes, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 300 g / 50 mm to 2000 g / 50 mm, from 500 g / 50 mm to 1500 g / 50 mm, or from 800 g / 50 mm to 1200 g / 50 mm.

[0327] Example 58. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 24 hours, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 400 g / 50 mm to 2500 g / 50 mm, from 600 g / 50 mm to 2000 g / 50 mm, from 600 g / 50 mm to 1,500 g / 50 mm, or from 850 g / 50 mm to 1500 g / 50 mm.

[0328] Example 59. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 48 hours, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 450 g / 50 mm to 3000 g / 50 mm, from 750 g / 50 mm to 2250 g / 50 mm, or from 1200 g / 50 mm to 2000 g / 50 mm.

[0329] Example 60. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 10 minutes, the shear force required to disengage the elements is at least 2 kg / sq. in.

[0330] Example 61. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 2 hours, the shear force required to disengage the elements is at least 4 kg / sq. in.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02

[0331] MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 Example 62. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 24 hours, the shear force required to disengage the elements is at least 6 kg / sq. in.

[0332] Example 63. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 48 minutes, the shear force required to disengage the elements is at least 8 kg / sq. in.

[0333] Example 64. The hybrid fastening system of any of the examples herein, wherein when the second contact layer is engaged with another second contact layer having the same composition, the peel force required to disengage them is less than 50 g / 50 mm.

[0334] Example 65. An absorbent article comprising the hybrid fastening system according to any of the examples herein.

[0335] Example 66. The absorbent article of any of the examples herein, wherein the absorbent article is a wearable article.

[0336] Example 67. The absorbent article of any of the examples herein, wherein the absorbent article is a diaper, diaper pant, training pant, youth pant, swim pant, feminine hygiene product, incontinence product and other adult care garment, medical garment, surgical pad or bandage, or other personal care or health care garment.

Claims

KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02MCC Ref. 11571-039WO1 CLAIMS1. A hybrid fastening system for an absorbent article, the hybrid fastening system comprising:a first fastening element comprising a first contact layer, anda second fastening element comprising a second contact layer, the second fastening element configured for being removably fastened to the first fastening element when the second contact layer is in physical contact with the first contact layer;wherein the first contact layer comprises a thermoplastic styrene block copolymer and a thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer, wherein the total styrene content in the first contact layer is less than 30 wt.% relative to the weight of the first contact layer, and wherein the thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer is present in an amount less than 50 wt.% relative to the weight of the first contact layer; andwherein the second contact layer comprises a polyolefin having a crystallinity of less than 70% as measured by DSC.

2. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein the first contact layer comprises a polymeric film or polymeric fibrous web.

3. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein the total styrene content in the first contact layer is from 0.1-29 wt.%, from 1-5 wt.%, from 5-10 wt.%, from 1-10 wt.%, from 5-15 wt.%, from 10-20 wt.%, from 15-25 wt.%, or from 20-29 wt.% relative to the weight of the first contact layer.

4. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein the first contact layer comprises the thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer in an amount from 1-49 wt.%, from 1-25 wt.%, from 25-40 wt.%, from 1-10 wt.%, from 5-15 wt.%, from 10-20 wt.%, from 10-30 wt.%, from 15-25 wt.%, from 20-30 wt.%, from 20-40 wt.%, from 25-35 wt.%, from 30-40 wt.%, or from 40-49 wt.% relative to the weight of the first contact layer.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02MCC Ref. 1157! -039WO 1 5. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic styrene block copolymer in the first contact layer comprises a styrene-olefin-styrene block polymer.

6. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic styrene block copolymer in the first contact layer comprises an unhydrogenated styrene-olefin-styrene block copolymer, a hydrogenated styrene-olefin-styrene linear or branched, di or tri, or multi block copolymer, or a combination thereof.

7. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic styrene block copolymer in the first contact layer comprises a styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer, a styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer, a styrene-ethylene-styrene block copolymer, a styrene-propylene-styrene block copolymer, a styrene-butylene-styrene block copolymer, a styrene-propylene-ethylene-styrene block copolymer, a styrene-butylene-ethylene-styrene block copolymer, or a combination thereof.

8. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein the first contact layer comprises a styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer, a hydrogenated styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer, or a combination thereof.

9. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer in the first contact layer comprises a homopolymer or a copolymer of an α-olefin having 1 to 12 carbon atoms.

10. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein the second contact layer comprises a polymeric film or polymeric fibrous web.

11. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein the polyolefin in the second contact layer has a crystallinity from 5-70%, from 5-60%, from 5-50%, from 20-60%, or from 30-50% as measured by DSC.KCC Ref. 65132341PCT02MCC Ref. 1157! -039WO 1 12. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein the polyolefin in the second contact layer has a density from 0.85 to 0.94 g / cm3or from 0.90 to 0.92 g / cm3.

13. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein the second contact layer comprises a low tack polyolefin.

14. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein, when two of the same second contact layers are held in a fastened condition for 10 minutes, the peel force required to disengage the elements is less than 100 g / 50 mm.

15. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein the second contact layer comprises polyethylene, polypropylene, a copolymer thereof, or a combination thereof.

16. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein the second contact layer consists of polyethylene, polypropylene, a copolymer of alpha olefins with C1-C12 carbon atoms thereof, or a combination thereof.

17. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein the second contact layer consists of a polyolefin copolymer and a styrene block copolymer in an amount from 0% to less than 50% by weight.

18. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein the second contact layer comprises: a first polymer comprising polyethylene, polypropylene, a copolymer thereof, or a combination thereof, anda second polymer comprising polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid, ethylene vinyl acetate, a poly(methyl)methacrylate polymer or copolymer, or a combination thereof.

19. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, w'herein the second contact layer comprises: a first polymer comprising polyethylene, polypropylene, or a copolymer thereof having a MWwof 50,000-1,000,000 andKCC Ref. 65132341PCT02MCC Ref. 1157! -039WO 1 a second polymer comprising polyethylene, polypropylene, or a copolymer thereof having a MWwfrom 10,000-500,000 Da.

20. The hybrid fastening system of Claim 1, wherein:when the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 10 minutes, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 300 g / 50 mm to 2000 g / 50 mm; andwhen the first fastening element and second fastening element are held in a fastened condition for 48 hours, the peel force required to disengage the elements is from 450 g / 50 mm to 3000 g / 50 mm.

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